Let’s be real—Raphinha is him. If he keeps up his current form, he absolutely deserves to win the 2024/2025 Ballon d’Or. 

Right now, the competition is tough—Mo Salah is leading the charge—but Raphinha is making serious waves, and here’s why he might just pull it off.

The Hans-Dieter Flick Factor

Raphinha’s transformation kicked off the moment Hansi Flick arrived. The German coach, fresh off his historic six-title run with Bayern Munich, saw something special in the Brazilian.

Flick even admitted, “I’ve never had a player like Raphinha.” And coming from a guy who’s worked with world-class talent, that’s saying a lot.

From the start of preseason, it was clear: Raphinha was going to be the team’s centerpiece. Flick gave him freedom on the pitch, turning him into Barcelona’s Swiss army knife—a forward capable of popping up anywhere, wreaking havoc in any position. The man’s energy is unreal; he’s everywhere—pressing, scoring, assisting, and smiling through it all.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Raphinha’s stats so far this season are wild: 30 matches, 22 goals, and 11 assists. That’s more than a goal contribution per game! 

Only Mo Salah’s numbers are better right now, but if Raphinha keeps this pace, he’s on track to hit 40+ goals and 20+ assists. Ballon d’Or-level stats, no question.

Big-Game Player

It’s not just about numbers, though. Raphinha shows up when it matters most:

• Champions League vs Bayern: Hat-trick.
• El Clásico at the Bernabéu: Goal and assist.
• Benfica comeback: Two goals.
• Spanish Super Cup Final: Two goals and an assist in a 5-2 thrashing of Real Madrid.

He thrives under pressure, and if Barca secures the Champions League trophy, he’ll be the reason why.

Off the Pitch: A Leader and Role Model

Raphinha isn’t just a baller; he’s also one of Barca’s five captains—a massive vote of confidence from his teammates. 

He’s been open about his struggles with mental health, working with a psychologist to overcome the pressure of playing at a top club. His honesty is refreshing:

"Football can break you. I’ve cried, even here in Barcelona. But I’ve learned to take care of myself, and I hope others do too."

This kind of transparency makes him relatable, and his resilience only adds to his legend.

Family Man and True Culé

Raphinha’s love for Barcelona runs deep—this is the club he’s adored since childhood. Off the pitch, he’s raising his son, Gael, with his wife Natalia, and he’s not letting the spotlight get to him. He’s focused, hardworking, and all-in for the badge.

Why Raphinha Deserves the Ballon d’Or

When it comes to the Ballon d’Or, three things matter: individual brilliance, team success, and fair-play. Raphinha checks all the boxes. He’s got the stats, he’s leading Barca to trophies, and he’s a class act on and off the field.

So, what’s next? If Barcelona wins the Champions League, Raphinha will be unstoppable in the race for the Ballon d’Or. Even now, he’s the player of the season for Barca fans, and the club is already looking to extend his contract.

Raphinha is HIM—the not-so-fake Brazilian who’s ready to take on the world.

If you agree, drop a comment to support Raphinha’s Ballon d’Or campaign, and stick around for more Barca updates. This is the best place for true Culés like you.