Raphinha Discusses Rivalry with Lamine Yamal, Addresses Ballon d’Or Snub
Brazilian winger Raphinha opened up about his relationship with teammate Lamine Yamal, dismissing any notions of rivalry. In a recent interview, he emphasized their strong bond and the healthy competition they share on the Barcelona squad. Both players have excelled together, contributing significantly to the team’s success in recent seasons.
Positive Dynamics Between Raphinha and Yamal
Raphinha expressed admiration for Yamal, noting, “The rivalry simply doesn’t exist.” He highlighted their mutual respect and how they motivate each other to achieve success. “I feel as if Lamine was part of my family,” he stated. This camaraderie has been pivotal in fostering a productive environment within the team.
Remarkable Achievements
- Last season, Raphinha and Yamal contributed a combined total of 102 goals and assists.
- Barcelona secured a domestic treble, marking a significant milestone for the club.
- Both players finished in the top five of the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting.
Raphinha finished fifth, while Yamal impressively secured second place behind winner Ousmane Dembélé. This recognition came after Raphinha’s outstanding performance in the 2024–25 season, where he recorded 59 goal involvements.
Ballon d’Or Snub
Despite his stellar contributions, Raphinha expressed disappointment with his fifth-place finish in the Ballon d’Or voting. “It was a personal disappointment,” he admitted. He expected to rank higher given his efforts throughout the season. However, he underscored the importance of humility and perspective gained from the experience.
Future Aspirations
Raphinha is currently recovering from a hamstring injury but remains focused on future goals. He aims to help Barcelona secure their first UEFA Champions League title in over a decade. Additionally, he is looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which he considers “the biggest dream of my career.”
As Raphinha continues to work hard, he remains optimistic about his chances of clinching the coveted Ballon d’Or award in the future. His dedication and skills on the field will surely keep him in the conversation for the highest honors in football.
