Raphinha Targets a Long Barcelona Future After Signing Contract Until 2030
Raphinha says he hopes to remain at Barcelona until the end of his playing career after extending his contract with the Catalan club through 2030. The Brazil international described the agreement as a source of pride for him and his family, while making clear that his ambitions extend well beyond personal milestones: he wants to help Barcelona compete for every major trophy, with the Champions League at the top of his list.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the Barcelona captain reflected on his progress, his bond with his teammates and the difficult early period he experienced at the club. He also admitted that his recent goalscoring numbers have exceeded his expectations, crediting his willingness to adapt to different roles and the quality of the players around him.
Barcelona extension brings pride and long-term ambition
Raphinha said the contract extension meant a great deal to his family, who had shared the uncertainty and hard work behind his rise. He hopes to continue playing at a high level for years and would be delighted to finish his career in Barcelona colours if his fitness allows.
“I give my all for Barcelona,” he said, describing his commitment as unchanged since his arrival. His comments underline the importance he places on belonging to the club, as well as his desire to build a lasting legacy rather than treat the new deal as simply another career milestone.
That long-term outlook also shapes his ambitions on the pitch. Raphinha said he wants to win every trophy available before 2030, identifying the Champions League as a particularly important target. Barcelona have enjoyed strong spells in domestic competition, but Europe’s top prize remains a defining challenge for the squad and its supporters.
Goalscoring progress has surprised the Brazilian
One of Raphinha’s most candid admissions concerned his attacking output. He said he had not expected to reach his current goalscoring numbers, especially after being asked to operate in different positions during his time at Barcelona.
Rather than focus on a fixed role, he has tried to adjust to the needs of the team and the coach. At times, that has meant playing closer to goal as an out-and-out striker. Raphinha said he trusted his ability to score, given the talent around him, but the scale of his contribution still came as a surprise. He now believes there is room to improve further.
His movement in and around the penalty area, he explained, has developed naturally. He has made those runs since joining Barcelona and pays close attention to players across the game to sharpen his own performance. Raphinha named Gabriel Jesus, Lamine Yamal, Anthony and Hamza among the players he watches, while noting that each has different qualities and cannot simply be copied.
Raphinha rejects rivalry with Lamine Yamal
With both Raphinha and teenage forward Lamine Yamal attracting attention for their attacking performances, comparisons between the two are inevitable. Raphinha, however, dismissed the idea that they are competing against one another. He said he wants Yamal to post the best possible statistics and win trophies with Barcelona, adding that he would be happy to see his teammate collect multiple Ballon d’Or awards.
That supportive tone reflects a wider message about the squad: individual recognition matters less to Raphinha than collective success. He said he does not play primarily to win personal awards, describing such honours as dependent on the views of individual voters. His priority, he stressed, is to give everything for the club whenever his body permits.
Raphinha’s comments also offer a glimpse of the competition and cooperation that can drive a team forward. Barcelona need their leading attackers to deliver goals, but their ability to share responsibilities and create opportunities for one another may prove just as important in the race for silverware.
From early criticism to confidence at Barcelona
The Brazilian also looked back on his first seasons in Catalonia, when his performances drew criticism and he was unsure how quickly he would establish himself. He said he had never lost faith in his ability, even when results did not match the expectations placed on him.
For Raphinha, the key was responding constructively when things went wrong. He continued to work, adapt and contribute, gradually gaining confidence and maturity. He acknowledged that his personal statistics helped change perceptions, but insisted that his approach—giving everything with enthusiasm—had remained consistent from the beginning.
He was reluctant to compare himself with Brazilian greats who previously represented Barcelona. Those players, he said, made history and earned the affection of the club’s supporters. Rather than measure himself against them, Raphinha wants to earn his own place in the hearts of fans through his performances and commitment.
Fitness, Brazil duty and respect for difficult decisions
Raphinha also addressed his physical condition ahead of the international break. He said he was recovering from an injury and felt in good condition, but was not yet at full fitness. He added that Carlo Ancelotti understands the importance of managing playing time and that they had discussed the situation.
The forward reassured Barcelona supporters that he would continue working to regain full sharpness, while recognising that decisions about workload must take account of both club and international commitments. His comments point to the careful balance required for a player expected to contribute across a demanding season.
Asked about playing on the same day as the death of Tenerife striker Miguel de Jesús, Raphinha described the tragedy as deeply affecting. He said footballers want to play because it is their profession, but decisions in such circumstances belong to the appropriate authorities. Continuing to work, he suggested, can also be a way of showing respect.
Atlético test and Barcelona’s response to setbacks
Looking ahead to Barcelona’s La Liga meeting with Atlético Madrid, Raphinha said his team must recognise the opponent’s strength while trusting its own qualities. He pointed to Barcelona’s positive record at the Metropolitano and said the side is most dangerous when it stays focused on its objectives. Any football prediction for the fixture must account for Atlético’s intensity and defensive discipline, as well as Barcelona’s attacking talent.
Raphinha said Barcelona had responded well after the Clásico defeat to Real Madrid, though he acknowledged the team could have been sharper defensively. He described the squad as being in strong form and insisted that difficult losses would not weaken its determination. He also recognised the quality of Paris Saint-Germain, whom he called a formidable European opponent.
He rejected the suggestion that Barcelona would have been unable to cope had he missed more time last season, pointing instead to the depth of the squad. In his view, the team has enough talent for every player to make a meaningful contribution—a crucial strength during a long campaign involving domestic and European competitions.
A close relationship with Deco
Raphinha spoke warmly about sporting director Deco, who represented him before joining Barcelona’s leadership structure. Their professional relationship lasted seven years, and the pair have known each other for a decade. Raphinha said he regards Deco almost like a father, crediting him with believing in his potential before Barcelona became a realistic destination.
Raphinha now manages his affairs with his wife and said his friendship with Deco remains strong. As he looks towards 2030, his message is clear: he wants to keep improving, contribute to Barcelona’s success and pursue the trophies that could define his time at the club. The goals have surprised him so far, but he believes both he and the team can achieve more.
