Raphinha agreed to extend his Barcelona contract until 2028. This occurred after a meeting between the player and club sporting director Deco and president Joan Laporta. The contract extension recognized the Brazilian star player's 2024/25 season form when he helped the team win the title in LaLiga and the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
The new contract, which adds a year to the initial terms, secures the forward’s position at the club. The player himself encapsulated the moment aptly: “I’m very happy with the renewal. I hope to stay here for many, many more years.”
He emerged as the team's star player since his arrival at the club in 2022 from Leeds. Chelsea and also Arsenal wanted him then but decided otherwise and chose Catalonia. Barcelona paid 58 million euros and bonuses and took a risk upon what they perceived to be a player who would thrive. The risk paid off.
Recognition in the profession
The new season gifted us with a mature and self-assured Raphinha. No drama and no showboating, he delivered the very thing you need from a star player: tactical acumen, consistency, and the ability to come good in the toughest situations. The Brazilian played in the big matches, played well in the tricky ones as well and helped the team find the solutions whenever the team struggled in general. That means a great deal.
Not to mention the sporting and tactical worth the renewal carries. In an age when the European market is as competitive as possible, to be able to secure a player in his prime without having to outbid is a novelty in itself. Barca moved early, moved quietly, and sealed a new deal without any ado. The club is aware it requires stability to compete and Raphinha, 28 and in the best physical condition, provides just that.
With youngsters and veterans towards the latter stages of their cycles, Barcelona needs players available instantly. Raphinha offers the same mix of international experience and desire to win.
His bond with the club built over a relatively short period has been cemented through his performance on the field and the respect off it and with the armband awarded to him. They understand who carries the jersey with dignity. And the Brazilian took the position without attempting too hard. By doing his job and being humble towards the badge.
What comes next?
Now the renewal is confirmed and inked, the focus is to maintain his level and bring it to new heights. This season will get harder. Barcelona needs to get back to the top in Europe. And the club knows it needs its stars at their optimum level. Raphinha is ready for the task.
The battle will be tough. Real Madrid are splurging. English clubs still carry a great weight. But Barça discovered a competitive core, and maintaining Raphinha in the squad is a big leap towards stability. The squad will have time to rebuild an already proven core. And this is worth a great deal.