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Raphinha is now a blaugrana. FC Barcelona and Leeds United FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Raphael Dias Belloli, also known as Raphinha. The player will sign a four year contract with the Club until June 30, 2026. The buy-out clause is set at 1 billion euros.
Friday’s presentation for the Brazilian winger saw Raphinha reveal that it was “an enormous honour to be here; I am very grateful. Many of my heroes have made history here and I would like to follow in their footsteps.” He also added that joining the Club was the culmination of a “childhood dream”.
“I fell in love with Barça because of Ronaldinho and it is has always been my dream to play here. I have lots of models, Deco, Neymar…they have all influenced me and made me dream of coming here and being a champion.”
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta also appeared delighted with the arrival of the former Leeds United player: “With Raphina, jogo bonito is back. In Barça golden eras there has always been Brazilians and Raphinha is picking up the baton.” The Club president made clear that coach Xavi Hernández was insistent about bringing in the winger and he also congratulated Raphinha for showing “at every turn his desire to come to Barcelona with so many other clubs interested, he put Barça as his priority.”
The winger was excited about getting started as part of Xavi Hernández’s squad: “I think we will be able to combine well my desire to be a success at Barça and what Xavi wants from me. I am excited about being coached by a legend like him, it’s a privilege.”
Raphinha revealed his ambition in front of the gathered press at the Ciutat Esportiva. “Barça always battle for trophies. As a fan I know Barça and I know what I can contribute here. My objective is to win trophies and I will do all I can to make it happen.”
The Brazilian gave the fans a preview of what they can expect this season: “I am a player who always wants to win and give my best. I look to improve every day…I don’t set personal targets, I think if the team is doing well, the personal happens by itself. I will do my best for the team to be a success.”
To round off, president Joan Laporta together with the director of football, Mateu Alemany, reiterated that they are still working strengthen the team according to the needs of the coaching staff.
