Raphinha's breakthrough season at Barcelona

Even when his position was in doubt, the Brazilian winger sent a clear message: he wanted to be a key figure for the Catalan club. The 24-25 season is shaping up to be the year of his consecration, with Raphinha becoming an indispensable asset for manager Hansi Flick.

His statistics this season have eclipsed those of his previous two campaigns at the club.

With his goal against Betis, Raphinha now boasts 20 goals across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Supercopa, and the Champions League. Remarkably, this matches his total from the two seasons prior in Barcelona's blue and garnet. In each of those seasons, he scored 10 goals. With half the season still to play, and considering his current form, it's clear Raphinha isn't content to rest on these laurels.

On Wednesday night, he scored in the only competition missing from his seasonal tally, the Copa del Rey. Raphinha missed the match against Barbastro due to minor niggles, but made amends with his goal against Betis.

This adds to his two goals in the Supercopa, both in the final against Real Madrid, six in the Champions League, and 11 in La Liga. Indeed, he is now the second top scorer in the league, only surpassed by his teammate, Robert Lewandowski.

Moreover, Raphinha, one of the team's captains, contributes more than just goals and assists. His character, commitment, and dedication are pivotal to Flick's squad.

Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds in July 2022, signing a contract until 2027. Although the exact figures were not disclosed, the club reportedly spent approximately 55 million euros, plus variables.

In his debut season, he featured in 50 matches, scoring 10 goals: seven in La Liga, two in the Copa del Rey, and one in the Europa League. However, he often found himself in the shadow of Ousmane Dembele.

The following season, 23-24, saw him maintain his scoring record of 10 goals, though distributed differently: six in LaLiga, three in the Champions League, and one in the Copa del Rey. He played in 37 matches, his season curtailed mainly by injuries.

From February last year, Raphinha began his upward trajectory, even under Xavi's management. This season under Hansi Flick, he has taken on more responsibility, amassing 28 appearances and 20 goals, with much of the campaign still ahead.

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