Raphinha, Barcelona’s star forward, is at the peak of his career in the 2024/25 season. At 28, the Brazilian has delivered staggering numbers, with 34 goals and 24 assists in 54 matches for the Catalan club. These figures position him as a top contender for the Ballon d’Or, the prestigious award recognizing the world’s best player. His meteoric rise under coach Hansi Flick has made him the cornerstone of Europe’s most potent attack.
Barcelona, powered by Raphinha, has scored 167 goals this season. The Brazilian has been directly involved in roughly one-third of those strikes. His consistency across competitions like La Liga and the UEFA Champions League underscores his global impact. Additionally, his performances for Brazil in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers further amplify his influence.
Raphinha’s impact goes beyond raw numbers. He combines versatility, blistering pace, precise dribbling, and exceptional vision. His contributions have driven Barcelona to secure the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa del Rey, while leading La Liga. Here are his standout achievements this season:
- 58 direct goal involvements (34 goals, 24 assists).
- 13 goals and 8 assists in the UEFA Champions League.
- Top scorer for Barcelona in La Liga with 18 goals.
- Four goals in six matches for Brazil.
The 2024/25 season marks a turning point for the Brazilian, now compared to football’s all-time greats. His journey, starting from Avaí’s youth academy, reflects years of grit and determination. Now in the European spotlight, Raphinha faces the challenge of sustaining this level in a pivotal year.
Raphinha does it again! 🔥#laligahighlights pic.twitter.com/OW3GilmFxZ
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 11, 2025
Numbers that stun
Raphinha’s 58 goal involvements rank him second among players in Europe’s top leagues, trailing only Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres with 63. In La Liga, his 18 goals and 11 assists in 33 matches have fueled Barcelona’s offensive dominance. The team leads the competition comfortably, with Raphinha as the driving force.
In the UEFA Champions League, Raphinha dazzled with 13 goals and 8 assists in 14 games. He’s one goal involvement shy of matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 22 in a single season, set in 2013/14 with Real Madrid. Despite Barcelona’s semifinal exit against Inter Milan, Raphinha remained a standout performer.
For Brazil, Raphinha has been equally impactful. In six 2026 World Cup qualifier matches, he scored four goals and provided one assist. His ability to deliver across different stages highlights his adaptability, making him a strong Ballon d’Or candidate in a year without a clear favorite.
His numbers have sparked widespread praise. Analysts highlight his blend of goals, assists, and leadership, positioning him as a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or.
📊 Dembele, Raphinha, Salah and Lamine Yamal – stats this season:
— Sholy Nation Sports (@Sholynationsp) May 12, 2025
🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/F1BbHKfsnL
Journey to stardom
Born in Porto Alegre, Raphinha cut his teeth at Avaí’s youth setup. In 2016, he debuted professionally with Vitória de Guimarães in Portugal. His talent shone through, earning a move to Sporting CP in 2018. A year later, he joined Rennes in France, marking his first step into a top-five European league.
Raphinha’s breakout came at Leeds United in 2020. Over two Premier League seasons, he scored 17 goals and provided 12 assists in 65 games. His flair caught Barcelona’s eye, leading to a €58 million transfer in 2022. Initially, he struggled to adapt to the club’s demanding style under Xavi. However, Hansi Flick’s arrival unlocked his potential, with Raphinha posting career-best numbers.
At Barcelona, he has played 141 matches, scoring 54 goals and assisting 47 times. His trophy cabinet includes two Spanish Super Cups (2022/23, 2024/25), a La Liga title (2022/23), and a Copa del Rey (2024/25). These accolades cement his status as a key figure at the club.
Measuring up to giants
How does Raphinha stack up against the season’s top performers? Below are the leading players in goal involvements across Europe’s major leagues:
- Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting): 52 goals, 11 assists in 49 games.
- Raphinha (Barcelona): 34 goals, 24 assists in 54 games.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): 33 goals, 23 assists in 50 games.
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich): 37 goals, 12 assists in 45 games.
- Ousmane Dembélé (PSG): 33 goals, 13 assists in 46 games.
In the Champions League, Raphinha’s 21 goal involvements place him alongside legends like Ronaldo and Messi. His efficiency—averaging over one involvement per game—sets him apart, even compared to players like Kane, who played fewer matches.
Raphinha’s consistency across competitions is a key strength. His ability to score and create in high-stakes matches makes him a unique threat.
💛 for Raphinha pic.twitter.com/dsfIt2RC0H
— 433 (@433) May 12, 2025
Pivotal role at Barcelona
Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona is enjoying a season of resurgence. Raphinha has emerged as the offensive leader, especially after Robert Lewandowski’s departure to Al-Nassr. The Brazilian has shouldered the attacking burden, forming dynamic partnerships with youngsters like Lamine Yamal and Pedri.
In La Liga, Barcelona has netted 92 goals in 33 rounds, with Raphinha contributing to 29. His ability to play on either wing and finish with precision has made him indispensable. His assists also showcase his selflessness, often setting up teammates in critical moments.
In the Copa del Rey, Raphinha’s impact was quieter, with one goal and four assists in five matches. Still, his presence helped secure the title. The Spanish Super Cup saw him shine, scoring twice and assisting once in two games.
The Champions League semifinal loss to Inter Milan was a setback, but Raphinha’s performance—a goal and an assist—proved his ability to compete against elite defenses.
Impact for Brazil
Raphinha is a mainstay in Brazil’s national team. Since his debut in 2021, he has played 26 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists. In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, he netted four goals in six games, including a hat-trick against Peru.
His versatility allows him to play as a winger or in central roles, adapting to coach Dorival Júnior’s tactics. Alongside Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo, Raphinha forms a formidable attacking trio.
With Brazil eyeing World Cup qualification and the new Club World Cup, Raphinha’s European experience will be vital. His leadership and big-game mentality make him a cornerstone of the squad.
Ballon d’Or race
The 2025 Ballon d’Or date remains unconfirmed, but it typically takes place between late October and early November. Organized by France Football, the award will evaluate the 2024/25 season, including the new Club World Cup.
Raphinha faces stiff competition from Gyokeres, Salah, and Kane. However, his performances across multiple competitions bolster his case. The lack of a dominant favorite, like Messi or Ronaldo in past years, creates an opportunity for new stars.
His leadership in a resurgent Barcelona, coupled with domestic titles and Champions League exploits, strengthens his candidacy. The final months of the season will be crucial.
Defining moments
Raphinha’s 2024/25 season has produced unforgettable highlights. In the Champions League, he scored a hat-trick in a 4-1 rout of Bayern Munich. In La Liga, his last-gasp goal sealed a 3-2 comeback against Real Madrid.
In the Spanish Super Cup final, Raphinha opened the scoring against Atlético Madrid, paving the way for a 2-0 win. For Brazil, his hat-trick against Peru in the qualifiers electrified fans.
These moments underscore his knack for shining in high-pressure situations. His ability to deliver goals and assists in clutch scenarios cements his elite status.
Off-field influence
Beyond the pitch, Raphinha’s story resonates. Raised in humble circumstances in Porto Alegre, his rise inspires aspiring athletes. He supports social initiatives for underprivileged children in Brazil.
At Barcelona, Raphinha mentors young talents like Lamine Yamal. His bond with the Camp Nou faithful is evident in the chants dedicated to him. This emotional connection elevates his importance to the club.
In Brazil’s national team, Raphinha is a model of professionalism. His work ethic and team-first attitude make him a role model for newer call-ups.
Building a legacy
At 28, Raphinha is in his prime. The 2024/25 season is already his best, but he’s hungry for more. With Barcelona leading La Liga, another title is within reach.
For Brazil, the 2026 World Cup looms as the ultimate goal. Raphinha’s experience in top-tier competitions will be critical as the Seleção chase a sixth title.
Until the Ballon d’Or is decided, Raphinha continues to pile up goals, assists, and trophies. His journey, defined by talent and resilience, marks him as one of football’s brightest stars.
