Raphinha on Barcelona Exit Rumors: “I think people here don't like to see me”

Barcelona forward Raphinha has addressed the swirling speculation surrounding his future at the club. Recent days have seen an increase in reports from the local Catalan press, suggesting that Camp Nou officials were alerted by the player's agent to expect a substantial €90 million offer from Saudi Arabia. These reports further indicated that the club's management would seriously consider such a proposal, given that the winger, despite being one of the team's top performers over the past two seasons, is 29 years old, making this potentially the last opportunity to secure such a significant transfer fee.

“Ever since I arrived at Barcelona, from day one, there have been rumors that I’m leaving the club. I think people here don't like to see me. Especially the press... There's one person who just lies. The person who wrote that article also wrote other lies about me, saying that I met with the club's management, that I spoke with people inside the club and said I hadn't decided whether I would stay at Barcelona or not. That person is nothing but a liar. Every time he publishes news, he has to omit some inappropriate things that come out of his mouth,” ESPN quoted the 29-year-old Brazilian.

Raphinha joined Barcelona in July 2022. His contract runs until June 30, 2028, having been extended in May 2025. In the 2025/26 season, the forward scored 19 goals and provided 8 assists in 31 appearances.