Raphinha: “Flick gave me the confidence to play my football”

10.10.26 12:30 LaLiga Spain

Barcelona

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Getafe

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Raphinha was close to leaving FC Barcelona in 2024. In comments reported by The Guardian, the Brazilian forward explains that Hansi Flick’s arrival played an important role in his decision to remain in Catalonia.

“Mentally, I had already left”

Raphinha admits that he was seriously considering leaving Barcelona before Flick’s appointment:

Deep down, I knew I was going to leave. Mentally, I had already left—that’s the truth.

At that time, his situation had become more uncertain. Lamine Yamal had taken on greater importance on the wing under Xavi, while Barcelona were also working on a move for Nico Williams. Flick’s arrival in the summer of 2024 nevertheless changed the Brazilian’s situation.

“He believed in me”

Raphinha notably recalls the conversation that helped change his decision. The speech quickly restored the forward’s confidence:

I was in Brazil and Flick called me. He told me he wanted to speak to me before I made my decision. I met him and he told me that he believed in me, that I would be important and that his style of play would suit me. I felt a lot of hope. He gave me the confidence to play my football.

Since joining Barcelona in 2022, he has made 185 appearances, scored 89 goals and provided 62 assists, according to figures reported by the source. This development has also strengthened Raphinha’s place in Barcelona’s project. Sporting director Deco recently confirmed the extension of his contract. The Brazil international is now tied to FC Barcelona until the summer of 2030, several years after seriously considering leaving the club.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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