Raphinha outshines Vini Jr, Mbappé, wins La Liga 2024/25 best player award

Brazilian star Raphinha was named La Liga’s best player for the 2024/25 season, spearheading Barcelona’s triumphant campaign to clinch the Spanish title. Announced in June 2025, the award recognized the winger’s pivotal role in securing the club’s second championship in three years. Scoring 18 goals and providing nine assists in 36 matches, the 28-year-old outshone rivals like Vini Jr, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham. Under coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona amassed 88 points, finishing four points ahead of Real Madrid. The season also saw the club lift the Copa del Rey and Spanish Supercup. Celebrated at Camp Nou, Raphinha’s leadership and flair defined the campaign. His standout performances, especially in four victories over Real Madrid, cemented his legacy.

Raphinha’s influence extended beyond statistics. His dominance in high-stakes matches, including five goals against Real Madrid, showcased his clutch ability. The award, voted by journalists and experts, highlighted his consistency and impact.

• Key achievements in 2024/25:
• 18 goals, averaging 0.5 per game.
• Nine assists, topping Barcelona’s squad.
• Best player of the month in August 2024.

Surpassing teammates like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha proved his worth as a cornerstone of Flick’s system. His journey to the top captivated fans and analysts alike.

Rise to stardom

Raphinha’s stellar season began with early promise. Winning August’s best player award, he maintained momentum, thriving in Flick’s fast-paced tactics. His versatility—switching between winger and central roles—added dynamism to Barcelona’s attack. The team’s 28 wins, four draws, and six losses reflected their dominance, with Raphinha playing 2,846 minutes across 36 games.

His impact was evident in crucial fixtures. Against Atlético Madrid and Sevilla, he delivered match-winning goals, earning praise for his composure. Off the pitch, Raphinha’s leadership rallied the squad, fostering unity in a youthful Barcelona side. His work rate and tactical discipline made him indispensable.

🚨 Raphinha named La Liga Player of the Season! 🥇 pic.twitter.com/oNiWF8bMYD

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 6, 2025

Mastery in rival clashes

Raphinha’s performances against Real Madrid were defining. Barcelona won all four encounters, scoring 16 goals, five from the Brazilian. His speed and dribbling overwhelmed defenders, particularly in transitions. A standout moment came at the Bernabéu, where he scored twice in a 4-2 victory.

• Highlights against Real Madrid:
• Two goals in October 2024 at Bernabéu.
• One assist in a 3-1 Camp Nou win.
• Decisive goal in the Spanish Supercup.
• Contributed to seven of Barcelona’s 16 goals in these matches.

Fans chanted his name, and banners at Camp Nou hailed him as a hero. Raphinha’s connection with supporters grew stronger with every goal celebration.

Beyond the scoresheet

Raphinha’s playmaking was equally vital. His nine assists in La Liga, often setting up Lewandowski and Yamal, underscored his creativity. In the Copa del Rey, he netted three goals in five matches, helping secure the trophy. The Supercup final saw him score against Athletic Bilbao, further proving his big-game mentality.

In the Champions League, despite Barcelona’s quarterfinal exit, Raphinha shone against Borussia Dortmund. He nearly won January’s best player award, narrowly losing to Betis’ Isco. His season-long consistency kept him atop the final voting.

Path to greatness

Raphinha’s journey to La Liga’s pinnacle wasn’t without hurdles. Signed from Leeds United in 2022, he faced scrutiny over his transfer fee. Yet, his growth under Flick was remarkable. The coach’s high-pressing system suited Raphinha, who thrived on the right flank and in attacking zones.

Defensively, he excelled, winning 62% of duels and aiding turnovers. His evolution into a complete player silenced doubters, earning him a place among Barcelona’s elite.

Spanish media buzz

The award sparked widespread discussion. Catalan outlets like “Mundo Deportivo” hailed Raphinha’s triumph, while Madrid-based “Marca” argued for Vini Jr. Social media erupted, with #RaphinhaMVP trending in Spain. Fans on X likened him to Neymar and Ronaldinho for his flair and charisma.

Barcelona supporters flooded platforms with praise, crediting Raphinha’s heart and skill. The debate underscored his impact on a fiercely competitive league.

Brazilian pride

The 2024/25 season showcased Brazil’s talent in La Liga. Vini Jr, with 15 goals and seven assists, was a finalist but fell short due to Real Madrid’s inconsistent run. Eder Militão’s defensive solidity earned nods, yet Raphinha’s victory highlighted Brazil’s enduring influence in Europe.

His form carried to the national team. Though absent from Brazil’s debut under Carlo Ancelotti, Raphinha later rejoined the squad, eyeing a starting spot for the 2026 Copa América.

Numbers that define

Raphinha’s stats tell a compelling story. Beyond 18 goals and nine assists, he boasted an 85% pass accuracy and 2.3 dribbles per game. His 85 shots, 42 on target, and 12 big chances created ranked him among La Liga’s best.

• Detailed metrics:
• Six goals in knockout competitions.
• 2,846 minutes, nearly 32 full matches.
• 85 shots, with 42 on target.
• 62% duel success rate.

These figures cemented his case as the season’s standout.

Bright horizon

At 28, Raphinha’s peak years lie ahead. With a contract until 2027, Barcelona plans to extend his stay, viewing him as a cornerstone alongside Yamal and Pedri. The 2025/26 season, with the Club World Cup and Champions League, will test his mettle.

Raphinha’s legacy at Camp Nou is already secure. His 2024/25 heroics—18 goals, nine assists, and a La Liga title—mark him as one of Barcelona’s modern greats.