Speaking after scoring another goal to close out his 2025 calendar year, Raphinha dismissed questions surrounding the Ballon d’Or, delivering a blunt response that quickly went viral.
“The Ballon d’Or? Sorry, but that is not interesting to me. I do not care,” Raphinha said, as quoted by football journalist Fabrizio Romano. His comments came in the aftermath of being excluded from the FIFA Best XI, the FIFPRO Best XI voted by players, and the Ballon d’Or top three, decisions that have sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts.
The timing of Raphinha’s remarks is notable, as they follow an exceptional run of form for both club and country. The winger ended 2025 with a total of 43 goal contributions, further strengthening his case as one of the most decisive wide attackers in world football.
Earlier in the season, he was also at the centre of controversy after producing 38 goals and 24 assists across 64 matches in the 2024/25 campaign, helping Barcelona lift La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
