Raphinha reveals he seriously considered leaving Barcelona after last summer's Copa America

The Brazilian has developed into an instrumental part of the club’s squad this season.

After the 2024 Copa America, Raphinha acknowledged that he gave leaving Barcelona some serious thought following his sluggish performance and poor relationship with previous manager Xavi.

The former Leeds United player was often subbed off amid the games under Xavi which irked the player, while Barcelona also considered selling the forward.

Under Hansi Flick, the Brazil international has experienced a remarkable transformation. Due to his failure to meet expectations, Raphinha was the focus of intense transfer rumours last year.

Though for rather different causes, the rumours are still widely circulated today. Raphinha is having an incredible season and, if he continues to play well, is probably going to be one of the favourites for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

In 42 games, the 28-year-old has scored an incredible 27 goals and assisted his teammates 20 times. He has, predictably, emerged as a club and national hero.

In an extensive interview, Raphinha, who is presently playing for Brazil on international duty, discussed his problems at Barcelona prior to Flick’s arrival.

After the previous campaign, Raphinha acknowledged to Globo that he was influenced by the media and that he gave leaving Barcelona some serious thought.

“My post-Copa America period was very turbulent,” Raphina began. “Every day there was news that I was going one way or the other, and I was also considering leaving Barcelona because it was something I didn’t feel comfortable with personally.

“Things weren’t working out. I had a season that wasn’t up to par and I saw people asking me to leave, that I wasn’t good enough for the club, and every day there was news that I was leaving. I ended up considering it.”

Despite Raphinha being recently linked to an unexpected move to Manchester United, Fabrizio Romano revealed that there are “zero indications” that a deal could happen. The player has stated unequivocally that he intends to stay at Barcelona for the long haul and create history at the club

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