Following an incredible season, Barcelona winger Raphinha signed a contract extension today through 2028.
The Brazilian was essential to Barcelona’s domestic triple of La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup, as his previous contract was slated to expire in 2027.
“Barcelona and Raphinha have reached an agreement for the renewal of his contract, which will link him to the club until June 30, 2028,” said the Catalan giants in a statement.
Raphinha, who is vying for the Ballon d’Or, has contributed 25 assists and 34 goals in 56 games in all competitions.
The 28-year-old has 13 goals, which ties him for the most in the Champions League, but Barcelona lost to Inter Milan in an exciting semi-final match.
He put Barcelona on the verge of winning La Liga with a hat-trick in their group stage victory over Bayern Munich and a brace in their most recent Clasico victory over Real Madrid.
The contract extension for Raphinha comes after that of coach Hansi Flick, who signed a new agreement with the German until 2027 on Wednesday.
When the Catalans visit Athletic Bilbao on Sunday for the season’s last game, they will hope to surpass the century mark, having scored 99 goals in 37 La Liga games.
Raphinha joined Barcelona for about £55 million ($74 million) in 2022 after leaving Leeds United, and in his debut season, he helped the team win La Liga.
However, following a dismal 2023–24 season, he nearly left the team, but Hansi Flick persuaded him to stay.