Brazilian forward Raphinha has officially extended his contract with FC Barcelona until June 2028, adding an extra year to his current deal, which was initially set to expire in 2027. Reacting to the news, Raphinha expressed his deep affection for the club and his desire to see out his career in Catalonia.
“I told my family long ago that my dream is to stay at this club until the end of my career. And I want to do that while I’m still at my best,” said the 28-year-old Brazilian star following the contract extension.
Currently enjoying a sensational season, Raphinha has been instrumental in Barcelona’s domestic success under new manager Hansi Flick, scoring 34 goals and providing 25 assists in 56 appearances across all competitions. His outstanding performances helped Barça secure a domestic treble — La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup — defeating arch-rivals Real Madrid in all three finals.
Speaking about the extension, Raphinha said: “This is a very fulfilling and special moment for me. I’m extremely happy. Since I arrived at this club, my biggest personal goal has been to make the fans happy.
I’m now Raphinha — a father, and also a leader. I’ve grown a lot since my first day at Barça, and I take on more responsibility every year. I’ve matured both on and off the pitch.”
The news of the contract renewal was shared on Instagram by his wife, Natalia Belloli, who posted a photo featuring Raphinha, their child, and Barcelona president Joan Laporta, all holding a jersey marked “2028.” The caption read simply: “Our home.” — a clear symbol of the family’s bond with the club.
Interestingly, Raphinha revealed he wasn’t expecting the new offer: “I didn’t see this proposal coming from the club. But I’m fully committed to giving everything I have for this badge — in training, and in every match.”
Raphinha joined Barcelona in 2022 after two seasons with Leeds United in the English Premier League. Despite scoring only 13 goals in his first two seasons and being rumored for a potential sale, everything changed after Flick’s arrival. He found a new gear, scoring 18 goals in La Liga to lead Barça to the title, along with 13 goals and 9 assists in the Champions League — performances that have placed him among the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or.
He is expected to be in close contention for the prestigious award alongside his teammate Lamine Yamal and PSG winger Ousmane Dembélé.
