Introduction
Raphael Dias Belloli, commonly known as Raphinha, has carved a notable niche in the football world with his exceptional skills and consistent performances. His journey from Brazil to becoming a key player for FC Barcelona and the Brazilian national team exemplifies his dedication and talent.Wikipedia
Raphinha: Player Profile
- Full Name: Raphael Dias Belloli
- Date of Birth: December 14, 1996
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Current Club: FC Barcelona
- Position: Right Winger
- Jersey Number: #11
- Market Value: €60 million (2024)
Early Career: Brazilian Roots (2014-2018)
Born on December 14, 1996, in Porto Alegre, Brazil, Raphinha began his professional career with Avaí FC. In 2016, he moved to Europe to join Vitória SC in Portugal, where he showcased his potential by scoring 18 goals in 67 appearances. His impressive performances earned him a transfer to Sporting CP in 2018, contributing to their Taça de Portugal and Taça da Liga victories in the 2018/19 s
Avaí FC (2014-2016)
- Made professional debut aged 17 in Brazilian Série B
- Key Moment: Scored first professional goal against Joinville
Vitória (2016-2018)
- Breakthrough season in Série A (2017): 7 goals
- Notable Feat: Hat-trick against Fluminense
- Transfer: €6.5m move to Europe (2018)
European Ascent: Portugal & France (2018-2020)
Sporting CP (2018-2019)
- Taça da Liga winner (2019)
- 6 goals, 5 assists in Primeira Liga
- UCL Experience: Played against Barcelona and PSV
Stade Rennais (2019-2020)
- Breakout season: 8 goals, 7 assists
- UCL Debut Goal: Against Krasnodar
- Market Value Jump: €20m → €40m in one year
Premier League Stardom: Leeds United (2020-2022)
In October 2020, Raphinha signed with Leeds United in the English Premier League. Over two seasons, he became a fan favorite, known for his pace, dribbling, and creativity. During his tenure, he made 67 appearances, scoring 17 goals and providing 12 assists, playing a crucial role in Leeds’ attacking dynamics.
Key Contributions:
- 2020/21: 6 goals, 9 assists (Premier League survival)
- 2021/22: 11 goals, 3 assists (including worldies vs Chelsea, West Ham)
- Leeds United Player of the Season (2022)
Iconic Moments:
- Free-kick winner vs West Ham (March 2022)
- Volley vs Everton (August 2021) – PL Goal of Month
- Assist for last-minute equalizer vs Brentford (May 2022)
Barcelona Dream (2022-Present)
2022/23 Season:
- Transfer: €58m move
- 10 goals, 12 assists in all competitions
- El Clásico Goal: Scored in 2-1 win vs Real Madrid
2023/24 Breakthrough:
- Became undisputed starter under Xavi
- 5 UCL group stage goals
- Versatility: Excelled on both wings
Brazil National Team (2021-Present)
- Debut: October 2021 vs Venezuela
- 2022 World Cup: Started 4 matches
- 2024 Copa America: Projected starter
Career Statistics (As of June 2024)
| Club | Years | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitória | 2016-18 | 72 | 19 | 11 |
| Sporting | 2018-19 | 46 | 8 | 7 |
| Rennes | 2019-20 | 42 | 11 | 9 |
| Leeds | 2020-22 | 67 | 17 | 12 |
| Barcelona | 2022- | 95 | 28 | 22 |
| Brazil | 2021- | 22 | 7 | 5 |
Total Career: 340+ apps, 90+ goals, 65+ assists
Playing Style & Strengths
Dribbling: 2.7 successful dribbles/90 (2023/24)
Crossing: 3.1 key passes/90 (top 5% among wingers)
Work Rate: 10.5km average distance covered
Big-Game Mentality: 8 G/A in Clásicos/Derbies
Unique Trait: Ambidextrous – scores with both feet equally well
Trophies & Individual Awards
Team Honors:
- La Liga (2023)
- Spanish Super Cup (2023)
- Taça da Liga (2019)
Individual Accolades:
- Leeds United Player of the Season (2022)
- Premier League Goal of the Month (August 2021)
- La Liga Team of the Week (7x in 2023/24)
Legacy & Future
Current Impact:
- Key player for Barcelona’s new era
- Brazil’s first-choice right winger
Future Potential:
✔ Could become Barcelona’s next iconic #11
✔ Potential Ballon d’Or candidate with trophy success
✔ On pace for 100+ career goals by age 30
Conclusion: The Brazilian Maestro
From Brazil’s second division to Barcelona’s hallowed grounds, Raphinha’s journey embodies the modern winger’s evolution. His blend of creativity, work ethic, and clutch performances make him one of football’s most valuable assets.
