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OM
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One phone call was enough to convince Barcelona's star attacker from quitting the Catalan giants.
Raphinha has shared the remarkable details of a turbulent moment in his career, where he almost left the Barcelona.
The Brazilian international, now a key figure at the Catalan club, scoring 27 goals and providing 20 assists in 42 matches so far this season, was on the verge of a summer transfer in 2024.
However, a critical intervention from German manager Hansi Flick convinced the former Leeds United winger to stay, and his fortunes have since turned around.
‘I saw people asking me to leave’
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In an exclusive interview with Globo Esporte, Raphinha opened up about the uncertainty he faced before the start of the season.
The 27-year-old winger had been under intense scrutiny after a season that fell below his high standards, prompting widespread speculation about his future at Barcelona.
“Things weren’t going well, I was coming off a season below what I could deliver and I saw people asking me to leave, which was not good for the club. Every day there were news that I would leave. I ended up thinking about it,” Raphinha admitted, reflecting on the pressure he faced.
The Brazilian’s departure seemed almost inevitable, with his £80 million market value drawing interest from several top clubs.
Yet, a conversation with Flick changed everything.
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The German manager, who has been influential in shaping the team's future, played a crucial role in Raphinha's decision to stay at Barcelona.
“After the Copa America, Hansi called me and told me to show up for training before making any decision, that he wanted to talk and that he counted on me,” Raphinha explained.
“This was an important point in the decision to stay.”
Raphinha opens up on Hansi Flick’s influence and mental strength
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Raphinha’s relationship with Flick is credited as the turning point in the player’s Barcelona career.
The Brazilian explained that Flick’s fair approach and belief in hard work allowed him to feel secure and confident in his role at the club.
“Talking with my wife, I told her that if he (Hansi Flick) was a fair guy and judged players based on their dedication in training, I would have a week to show myself as a player and he wouldn’t regret it,” Raphinha said.
His gamble paid off, with the winger finding his form under the German coach and now playing a pivotal role in Barcelona’s success so far this season.
Beyond Flick's influence, Raphinha also highlighted the psychological aspect of his transformation.
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The Brazilian star has worked extensively on his mental strength, a crucial factor in his performance this season.
“The mental aspect is even more important than just taking care of the body. If the mind is not right, the body does not respond as it should,” Raphinha explained.
This focus on his mental health, especially after recovering from an injury last season, has made a significant impact on his game.
“Midway through last season, after my injury, I intensified my mental work with a psychologist,” he revealed.
As the season progresses, Raphinha has become one of the most talked-about candidates for the 2025 Ballon d'Or.
When asked about his chances, the winger humbly reflected, “Being named as one of the favourites is already a victory after everything I’ve been through in my career.”
His impressive form this season has placed him among the top contenders, marking a true comeback for a player who once seemed on the brink of leaving Barcelona.
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