FC Barcelona have had a very decent 2025/26 season so far. They are leading La Liga by a solitary point and are in a good position to secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League, should they perform well against Copenhagen.
One player whose absence was felt deeply by coach Hansi Flick for two months early in the season was Raphinha. During that period, Barcelona suffered their worst run of the campaign, including defeats to Sevilla, Real Madrid, and PSG.
Since his return, the Brazilian has looked his usual self, scoring goals and providing assists. More importantly, he is leading the team from the front with his intense pressing.
Raphinha, however, was less than pleased when asked by DAZN reporter Rafa Escrig, as quoted by SPORT, to compare his current season with the previous one after the 3-0 win against Real Oviedo. Responding with visible seriousness, he said, “Do you think anything has changed? I do the same work as last season.”
He added, “I’ll never be satisfied with my performance; I’m always looking for a better version.”
Rafa Escrig: Llevas ya 8 goles en liga, te has perdido varios partidos esta temporada, no sé si sientes que ya estás econtrando el punto en el que estabas la temporada pasada.
Raphinha: 8 goles en 13 partidos, ¿crees que ha cambiado algo de la temporada pasada?
Pam. pic.twitter.com/QTnQXKHJ5s
— Vic Jim (@VicJim76) January 26, 2026
It is surprising that Raphinha is receiving criticism at all. He gives 100% on the pitch every time and is one of Barcelona’s most productive players this season, despite the injuries.
The team always looks better with the Brazilian in it. Whether he is wearing the armband or not, Raphinha is always a leader, and the pressure Barcelona apply is not half as impressive without him. If that is not influence, then what is?
Raphinha will be keen to keep the injuries at bay and continue to focus on contributing to the team in whatever way possible in the coming months.