Barcelona forward Raphinha has revealed that he will be staying with the club for the upcoming season despite rumors that the Catalan club would be open to offers for him this summer. Despite being Barca’s second-highest scorer with ten goals last season, Raphinha’s future at the club has been the topic of speculation during the transfer window. The Brazilian still has a strong market in the Premier League, with Newcastle reportedly willing to pay more than the €40 million that Barca paid to sign him 12 months ago.
However, the forward has put an end to rumors about his future by confirming that he has no intention of leaving the Catalan giants anytime soon. “I will continue at Barcelona next season and the season afterwards. I have a long contract and I hope to spend those years here and many more,” said Raphinha in an interview with Club de Deportista magazine. He also expressed his love for Barcelona as a city and the happiness of Brazilians in the city.
Raphinha also reflected on his struggles after leaving the Premier League behind, stating that his first six months at Barca were difficult. However, he credits his teammates and coach Xavi Hernandez for helping him adapt better to the team. We have a coach who knows Barca’s way of playing perfectly and who also knows the club inside out. Xavi knows what I can do in this squad, he concluded.
The news will be a blow to Newcastle, who were reportedly keen on signing Raphinha this summer, thanks to the abundance of cash they have available from their Saudi Arabian takeover. Barca’s rumored willingness to sell Raphinha was also met with surprise, given his displays last season. It is yet to be seen if any other clubs will make a move for the Brazilian before the close of the transfer window.
