Raphinha’s 2025 Season Deserves Recognition — So Why Was He Snubbed?
2025 was an incredible year for Raphinha. The Brazilian winger didn’t just shine on the pitch — he dominated it. Over the course of the year, he scored an impressive 23 goals and contributed 19 assists, racking up a total of 42 goal contributions. On top of his personal stats, he lifted three major trophies with Barcelona, showing his impact both individually and for the team.
But here’s the part that baffles football fans everywhere: despite this phenomenal performance, Raphinha was overlooked for the FIFPRO World XI. Let’s put his numbers side by side with some of the players who were selected instead.
Take Jude Bellingham, for example. Bellingham scored 12 goals in 2025 — 11 fewer than Raphinha — and provided 14 assists, which is five fewer than Raphinha’s total. His combined contribution of 26 goal involvements is a full 16 less than what Raphinha achieved. And when it comes to silverware, Bellingham didn’t lift a single trophy all year.
Then there’s Cole Palmer, who did win trophies — the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. But in terms of personal output, Palmer scored 9 goals (14 fewer than Raphinha) and added 8 assists (11 fewer). While trophies are important, the question remains: can stats and influence on the pitch be ignored so easily?
So here’s the question: what exactly justified Raphinha being snubbed for the FIFPRO XI? He outperformed both Bellingham and Palmer in goals, assists, and overall contributions, and he lifted more silverware than either. If someone can provide a compelling reason, it’s hard to see one — from where it stands, Raphinha’s brilliance simply went unrecognized.
One thing is clear: 2025 was Raphinha’s year. His numbers speak for themselves, his trophies speak for themselves, and yet recognition didn’t. Football fans everywhere are left wondering: how do you overlook a player like this?
