Raphinha, full name Raphael Dias Belloli, is a Brazilian footballer who has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most talented wingers in world football. Born on December 14, 1996, in Porto Alegre, Brazil, Raphinha’s journey to the top of football has been nothing short of impressive. Known for his dribbling skills, speed, creativity, and ability to score goals, Raphinha has become a key player for both his club and national team. In this article, we will explore Raphinha’s career, his playing style, and his impressive statistics, providing a detailed look at how he has risen to prominence in the world of football.

Early Career and Development

Raphinha’s football journey began in his home country of Brazil, where he developed his skills at local clubs. His talent was evident from a young age, and he eventually moved to the renowned Brazilian club Internacional’s youth academy. Raphinha’s time at Internacional was crucial in shaping his early career, giving him a platform to hone his technical skills and gain exposure in the footballing world.

After his stint at Internacional, Raphinha’s big break came when he moved to Europe. He signed with the French club Rennes in 2019, where his career truly began to take off. Raphinha’s performances in Ligue 1 quickly caught the attention of larger clubs, and his consistent form at Rennes led to a move to the English Premier League with Leeds United in 2020.

Leeds United and Premier League Stardom

Raphinha’s transfer to Leeds United marked a significant milestone in his career. Under the guidance of manager Marcelo Bielsa, Raphinha quickly became one of the standout performers for the club. His pace, flair, and eye for goal made him a key figure in Leeds’ attacking setup. During the 2020-2021 season, Raphinha played a crucial role in helping Leeds secure a mid-table finish in the Premier League, showcasing his quality in one of the toughest leagues in the world.

Raphinha’s ability to produce key moments in matches, whether through assists or goals, was evident from the outset. His attacking intelligence, combined with his technical ability, made him a favorite among Leeds fans. His dribbling skills and knack for beating defenders made him a constant threat on the wing, while his precise crosses and free kicks added another layer to his game.

Raphinha’s Stats at Leeds United

Raphinha’s stats at Leeds United are a testament to his exceptional talent. Over his two seasons at the club, Raphinha made 67 appearances, scoring 17 goals and providing 12 assists. These numbers are especially impressive for a player in his position, and his ability to influence matches from wide areas was a major factor in Leeds’ attacking play.

In the 2020-2021 Premier League season, Raphinha scored 6 goals and provided 9 assists in 30 appearances. These contributions helped Leeds United secure a comfortable mid-table finish and earned him widespread recognition as one of the Premier League’s top wingers. His performances also earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team, marking another significant step in his career.

Move to FC Barcelona

In the summer of 2022, Raphinha made another high-profile move in his career, this time to Spanish giants FC Barcelona. 

The move was a dream come true for the Brazilian winger, who had long been linked with a move to one of Europe’s top clubs. Barcelona’s interest in Raphinha was driven by his exceptional performances at Leeds and his potential to thrive in one of the most prestigious clubs in the world.

Raphinha’s signing for Barcelona was part of a broader effort by the club to rejuvenate its squad under manager Xavi Hernández. Known for his possession-based style of play, Xavi saw Raphinha as a perfect fit for Barcelona’s system, with his ability to deliver dangerous crosses, his pace, and his versatility in attack. In his first season at the club, Raphinha continued to show why he is regarded as one of the best wingers in Europe, contributing with key goals and assists.

Raphinha’s Stats at Barcelona

Raphinha’s time at Barcelona began with an impressive start, as he quickly adapted to the club’s style of play. In his debut season in La Liga, Raphinha made 33 appearances, scoring 7 goals and providing 8 assists. These stats showcased his adaptability and ability to deliver in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. His performances also played a role in helping Barcelona secure a top-four finish in La Liga, ensuring their participation in the UEFA Champions League for the following season.

Raphinha’s contribution to the team was not just limited to his goal-scoring ability. His off-the-ball movement, work rate, and technical skills made him a key asset for Barcelona’s attacking unit. His link-up play with teammates such as Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Gavi helped Barcelona maintain a fluid attacking style that allowed them to compete at the highest level in Spain and Europe.

International Career

Raphinha’s international career with Brazil has also been a key aspect of his rise to prominence. After impressing at club level, Raphinha earned his first senior call-up to the Brazil national team in 2021. His debut came in a World Cup qualifying match against Chile, where he immediately made an impact with his dynamic play on the wing.

Raphinha’s international stats reflect his growing importance in Brazil’s setup. As of 2025, he has made 14 appearances for Brazil, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists. His ability to perform on the international stage has helped solidify his place in the national team, and he continues to be a key figure as Brazil looks to build a squad capable of challenging for international trophies.

Playing Style and Strengths

Raphinha is a versatile and dynamic winger who can play on either flank, although he is often deployed on the right-wing, cutting in onto his stronger left foot. His playing style is characterized by his dribbling ability, pace, and creativity. He is known for taking on defenders, using his quick feet and agility to beat them in one-on-one situations. His vision and crossing ability make him a potent threat from wide positions, and he is equally capable of scoring goals from distance or in close-range situations.

One of Raphinha’s key strengths is his ability to make smart runs behind opposition defenses, using his pace to create goal-scoring opportunities. He is also a set-piece specialist, with his free-kick deliveries and accurate crosses adding an extra dimension to his game. His work rate off the ball is another standout feature, as he is constantly involved in defensive actions, helping his team win possession and transition quickly into attack.

FAQs 

How many appearances has Raphinha made for Barcelona?

Raphinha joined Barcelona in the summer of 2022. By early 2025, he had made over 50 appearances for the club, contributing with goals and assists. His adaptation to Barcelona’s tactical system has been commendable, and he remains a vital part of their offensive strategy.

What is Raphinha’s performance in the Brazil national team?

Since his debut for Brazil in 2021, Raphinha has played in several World Cup qualifiers and international friendlies. As of 2025, he has earned 14 caps and scored 3 goals for the national team. His performances with Brazil have further solidified his reputation as one of the top wingers in global football.

What are Raphinha’s strengths on the field?

Raphinha is known for his exceptional dribbling ability, speed, and flair. His quick feet allow him to beat defenders with ease, while his crossing ability and set-piece deliveries are key features of his game. Raphinha also has a strong left foot, making him a versatile threat both inside and outside the penalty box.

How did Raphinha perform in the Premier League?

During his time at Leeds United, Raphinha made 67 appearances in the Premier League, scoring 17 goals and providing 12 assists. His performances in the 2020-2021 season were particularly notable, helping Leeds secure a solid mid-table finish in their return to the top flight.

To Conclude

Raphinha’s rise in football has been a remarkable journey, with his stats and performances reflecting his undeniable talent. From his early days in Brazil to his successful stints at Rennes, Leeds United, and Barcelona, Raphinha has proven himself as one of the most exciting wingers in world football. His consistency, versatility, and technical ability make him a valuable asset to any team, and his future in the game looks incredibly promising. As he continues to develop and mature, there is little doubt that Raphinha will remain one of the top players to watch in international football for years to come.

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