Former FC Barcelona academy graduate Rafinha Alcantara has announced his retirement from football at the age of 32.
The Brazilian posted a video on his social media accounts earlier today, confirming that he was bringing down the curtains on his playing career in football.
Following the announcement, FC Barcelona have sent a touching message congratulating the former La Masia graduate on his career and wishing him well for what lies ahead.
“Thank you for your football and for defending these colours with pride and commitment. Good luck in this new stage, Rafinha,” the message from Barcelona read.
Gracias por tu fútbol y por defender estos colores con orgullo y compromiso. 💙❤️
Mucha suerte en esta nueva etapa, @Rafinha. pic.twitter.com/pEBqvtrR9C
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) December 22, 2025
Rafinha joined La Masia at the age of 13 years old, along with his brother Thiago Alcantara, who is currently a member of Hansi Flick’s staff at Barça.
The former midfielder made his first-team debut for the Blaugrana in November 2011 and went on to make 56 senior appearances.
Before leaving the club permanently for PSG in 2020, Raphinha had multiple loan stints away from Barcelona, having spells with Celta Vigo (x2) and Inter Milan.
During his contract with PSG, Rafinha briefly returned to Spain, joining Real Sociedad on a short loan stint before moving to Al-Arabi in Qatar in the summer of 2022.
After two years there, the former midfielder has been without a club since 2024, with a serious knee injury prohibiting his return, and has now called time on his career.
Rafinha retires having won three La Liga titles, five Copa del Rey trophies, and a UEFA Champions League crown with Barcelona.