Raphinha Extends Barcelona Stay Until 2028 After Stellar Season

Barcelona winger Raphinha has signed a new contract with the club, committing his future to the Catalan giants until June 2028. The announcement comes on the heels of a triumphant season in which the Brazilian played a starring role in securing a domestic treble: La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.

The 28-year-old, who had previously been tied to Barcelona until 2027, saw his value soar following a blistering campaign. With 34 goals and 25 assists across 56 matches in all competitions, Raphinha has become a talisman for the Blaugrana. His exploits have not gone unnoticed, with many tipping him as a contender for the prestigious Ballon d’Or.

“Barcelona and Raphinha have reached an agreement for the renewal of his contract, which will link him to the club until June 30, 2028,” the club confirmed in a statement on Thursday.

In Europe, Raphinha has been equally lethal. He currently stands as joint top scorer in the Champions League with 13 goals, despite Barcelona’s dramatic exit in the semifinals at the hands of Inter Milan. His hat-trick against Bayern Munich in the group stage and brace in the latest El Clasico victory over Real Madrid underlined his capacity to perform on the biggest stages.

The winger’s contract extension follows the announcement of head coach Hansi Flick’s new deal, which keeps the German tactician at the club until 2027. Flick is believed to have played a key role in convincing Raphinha to stay, particularly after a turbulent 2023-24 season when the Brazilian was reportedly close to leaving.

Raphinha’s renewal is part of a broader effort by Barcelona to secure its core players ahead of another title charge next season. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, just 17, is expected to follow suit with a new contract in the coming weeks. His agent Jorge Mendes hinted at the impending agreement, stating, “He will renew (his deal) soon,” after meeting Yamal on Thursday.

Together, Raphinha and Yamal have tormented defences on either side of veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, helping Barcelona notch an impressive 99 goals in 37 La Liga matches. They now look to cap off the season in style by crossing the 100-goal mark in their final match against Athletic Bilbao.

Signed from Leeds United in 2022 for £55 million, Raphinha has evolved into a vital cog of Barcelona’s attacking force. His decision to extend his stay signals a renewed ambition at Camp Nou as the club looks to build on its recent success.