Barcelona’s season has found one of its strongest early currents in Raphinha, and the Brazilian forward has indicated that he wants his future to remain in Catalonia beyond his current deal.
Speaking in a preview of an interview to be broadcast on RAC 1’s Tu diràs programme at 22:30, the newly appointed first captain of Barcelona said he would welcome a contract extension and hopes to finish his playing career at the club.
“Yes, I am thinking about renewing,” Raphinha said. “When I extended my contract, I signed until 2028 thinking that I would be 30 or 31 and I did not know how I would be then. But with the way I have begun this season, I feel I have a few more years in me. I would be very happy to extend my contract and, hopefully, end my career here without needing to go elsewhere.”
Barcelona ready to discuss a new agreement
Raphinha’s existing Barcelona contract runs through 2028, but sporting director Deco has already made clear that the club is considering the next step.
Deco said last week that the winger has earned his place within the dressing room and is settled in Barcelona. He credited Hansi Flick’s management, particularly on the emotional side, with drawing a high level from the player.
“Every player has pride, but he has built his own story at the club and has the respect of his team-mates,” Deco said. “He is happy here, which is important. The coach has got the best from him through his emotional management. I see him in a very good place.”
The Barcelona executive added that the club monitors its squad’s contract situations to avoid being caught late in renewal talks, while also maintaining a balanced wage structure based on merit. “We will speak with him,” he said.
A captain leading the scoring race
Flick’s decision to make Raphinha Barcelona’s first captain has coincided with an exceptional opening to the campaign. The Brazilian is currently the leading scorer in La Liga with nine goals, two more than both Barcelona team-mate Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé.
His impact has extended into Europe as well. Raphinha scored twice against Feyenoord in the Champions League, adding further weight to Barcelona’s desire to keep a key figure tied to the club for longer.
