Add– Amid persistent speculation about his future, FC Barcelona winger **Raphinha** has set the record straight in a candid interview with *Mundo Deportivo*. The Brazilian international opened up about the criticism he’s faced since joining the Catalan club, his commitment to Barça, and the standout season that has silenced his doubters.
### **“I Knew My Ability” – Raphinha on Proving Critics Wrong**
Since his arrival at the Camp Nou, Raphinha has faced continuous scrutiny. Transfer rumors seemed to follow him in every window, with critics questioning whether he was good enough for a club of Barcelona’s stature. But the 28-year-old never lost faith in himself.
> “From the moment I arrived, people were already talking about me leaving,” Raphinha said. “There were always doubts—was I good enough for Barça? But I knew my ability. I’m not here because someone gifted me a spot. I’m here because of the work I’ve done throughout my career, in the Premier League, in Brazil, and with the national team.”
He acknowledged that pressure and criticism are part of life at an elite club, especially when performances don’t immediately meet expectations. Still, Raphinha always believed that if he stayed focused and worked hard, perceptions would eventually change.
> “At a club like this, it’s normal for people to judge when things don’t go well,” he admitted. “But I always believed that if I gave my best, the fans and the critics would see what I bring to this team. And that’s what happened.”
### **Big Offers Rejected: “I Always Wanted Barça”**
Before joining Barcelona, Raphinha was one of the most sought-after attacking talents in Europe. Premier League giants and other top clubs were reportedly ready to pay significant transfer fees to secure his signature. But for the Brazilian, the decision was emotional as much as it was professional.
> “There were big offers—offers from the Premier League and other huge clubs. But that wasn’t the point. It wasn’t about the money or even just the football. I wanted to be here. I’ve followed this club since I was a kid—Ronaldinho, Neymar, the history, the atmosphere. I always dreamed of playing at the Camp Nou and writing my name in the club’s history.”
### **A Standout Season and Future Ambitions**
Raphinha’s dedication has paid off. This season, he led Barcelona in goal contributions across all competitions, playing a crucial role in the club’s domestic treble under new coach **Hansi Flick**.
> “When I signed for Barça, I already had it in mind—I wanted to be here for many years,” he said. “But I knew that staying longer meant I had to earn it. I had to deliver on the pitch and in training every day. That was my mindset from day one.”
Now, with growing talks about a possible contract extension, Raphinha is looking forward to continuing his journey at the club he has long admired.
### **Conclusion**
Raphinha’s evolution at Barcelona is a testament to resilience, self-belief, and hard work. From being labeled surplus to requirements to becoming one of the team’s most productive players, the Brazilian winger has not only changed minds but also carved out a crucial role in Barça’s revival. With his future now seemingly tied to the Camp Nou for years to come, Raphinha’s dream of leaving a legacy in Blaugrana colors is well on track.
