Raphinha Denies Barcelona Exit Rumours, Slams Journalist: "He Lies..."

Raphinha has voiced his frustration over persistent speculation regarding his potential departure from Barcelona, directly accusing a journalist of spreading false information. Speaking to ESPN the day before El Clásico against Real Madrid, the Brazilian international, one of the team's captains, was unequivocal.

"Ever since I arrived at Barcelona, from day one, there's been speculation about me leaving. I think people don't like seeing me here. Especially the press... there's one who just lies," criticized the winger, who has once again been linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.

The 29-year-old detailed his frustrations, targeting a specific journalist without naming them. "The journalist who wrote that also wrote other things about me that were lies, saying I met with the club, that I spoke internally about my indecision, that I didn't know if I would stay or not... that guy just lies," stated the former Sporting and Vitória de Guimarães player.

Recently returned from an injury sustained while on international duty with the Brazilian national team, Raphinha is now focused on securing another LaLiga title, which would be his third in four seasons at the club. "To be honest, the special thing for me is winning LaLiga, regardless of the opponent," he explained.

Despite acknowledging the importance of the Clásico for the fans, the forward reiterated his priority. "For the fans, for those who have been at the club longer, it's something very special to win the title against our biggest rival. For me, the most important thing is to win LaLiga. And if it has to be against them, even better," he concluded.