Barcelona's Raphinha: A Crucial Factor in Champions League Semifinal

Raphinha's impressive form and work rate make him a key player for Barcelona as they face Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals.

Raphinha has been instrumental in Barcelona's Champions League campaign. In the first leg against Inter Milan, his powerful shot hit the crossbar and bounced in off goalkeeper Yann Sommer, resulting in an own goal that contributed to the 3-3 draw.

The draw sets up a thrilling second leg, with Barcelona visiting Inter Milan. Raphinha's form has been key to Barcelona's European run, and his role will be crucial in the second leg.

Raphinha has been phenomenal in the Champions League, scoring 12 goals and setting up 9 assists in 13 matches. Including the assist for Sommer's own goal, his total goal contributions stand at 21.

This tally has surpassed Lionel Messi's previous record of 19 direct goal involvements in a single Champions League campaign for Barcelona, showcasing Raphinha's crucial role in the team's success.

Raphinha has enjoyed a remarkable season, scoring 31 goals and providing 25 assists in 52 games across all competitions. This impressive form has been a key factor in Barcelona's success.

With the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup already secured, Barcelona now aims for a potential quadruple, with Raphinha's rise playing a significant role in their Champions League campaign and overall performance.

Raphinha has been phenomenal in the Champions League, scoring 12 goals and setting up 9 assists in 13 matches. Including the assist for Sommer's own goal, his total goal contributions stand at 21.

This tally has surpassed Lionel Messi's previous record of 19 direct goal involvements in a single Champions League campaign for Barcelona, showcasing Raphinha's crucial role in the team's success.

“The truth is he changed practically everything for me,” said Raphinha in April.

“I was going to leave the club before the season started, the coach was so important in changing my mind, for me to stay at the club.

“He gave me all the confidence possible for me to do what I am doing, he changed everything, he basically changed my career.

“I'm doing my best, my best season since I started playing and I owe it all to him.”

Barcelona signed Raphinha in July 2022, and while he impressed with his hard work, he also frustrated with inconsistency. Despite this, he scored 10 goals as Barcelona won La Liga under Xavi Hernandez. The following season was disappointing for Raphinha and the club, with the player again scoring 10 goals but facing potential exit due to Lamine Yamal's emergence. “I love him,” his coach said, highlighting his appreciation for the player despite these challenges.

Barcelona considered selling Raphinha due to financial constraints, but he was persuaded to stay by coach Hansi Flick. Raphinha adapted to playing on the left wing, allowing the club to pursue other targets, such as Nico Williams.

Raphinha's work rate and skills fit perfectly into Flick's high-pressing game, leading to a remarkable turnaround in his performance and making him a Ballon d'Or contender.

OUR TEAM. pic.twitter.com/LMD98vEciL

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 4, 2025

Raphinha narrowly missed scoring against Inter when his shot hit the crossbar, but he made up for it by setting up Ferran Torres' goal. This showcased his relentless drive to improve.

While attention may focus on teammate Lamine Yamal, Raphinha remains committed to his role. “It is unacceptable to concede so many goals at home,” he said, highlighting his focus on team improvement. Raphinha leads the Champions League scoring charts alongside Serhou Guirassy, trailing by just one goal, and will aim to help Barcelona reach the final for the first time since 2015.