'It's a dream come true' - Raphinha confesses love for Barcelona

La Liga giants Barcelona unveiled Brazil forward Raphinha on Friday, July 15, 2022.

Raphinha joins Barcelona from Premier League outfit Leeds United after an impressive campaign.

The 25-year-old joins on a five-year deal until 2027 and will wear the number 11 jersey.

At the press conference, Raphinha revealed the reason he snubbed several suitors to sign for Barcelona.

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The forward revealed that it has been his dream since childhood to play for Barcelona at Camp Nou.

"I'm about to realize a big dream. I thank the president and everyone who worked for this. Visca Barça y Visca Catalunya.

"I have many idols who have passed through here. Just being able to do half of what they achieved will be a lot.

"It's a dream I've had since I was a child. I'll do my best to help Barça be Barça again."

Barcelona president Joan Laporta was full of praise for Raphinha after he rejected several offers to join the Catalan side.

Raphinha will now compete with France forward Ousmane Dembele who recenlty extended his stay at Barcelona.

He compared Raphinha to former Brazilians that have played for the club such as Ronaldinho, Rivaldo and Romario to name a few.

He said, "Joga Bonito will return to Barça. We have always had a Brazilian in Barça's successful times. I'd like to thank Deco, who has worked really hard.

"Xavi insisted a lot on us that he liked Raphinha. I want to thank the player because he has done everything possible to become a Barça player."

Raphinha joins other Barcelona new signings such as Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie.