Barcelona captain Raphinha signed a contract extension on Thursday
that is designed to keep him at the club until 2030.The Brazilian was thrilled to lock down his future and spoke about a number of topics after the signing at a press conference.
Here’s a round-up of what Raphinha had to say:
Raphinha on Atletico Madrid
“We play a sport where it’s 11 against 11, and each team is looking out for their own best interests. We were eliminated, but we won the last match. I think we have a positive record in the matches we’ve played
there. We know our strength. When we’re focused and focused on our objective, we’re very strong. We have to respect Atlético Madrid a lot.”
Raphinha on Lamine Yamal
“We don’t see competition from the inside, it’s more from the outside than from us, I would be super happy if he could win 10 Ballon d’Or, he deserves it for everything he’s doing and for what he’s going to do.”
Raphinha on being Barcelona’s No. 9
“The movements I make as a 9 I have always done, making the movement behind the back of the defenders, but before I was further away from the goal. It’s something natural to me, not something I had to learn playing in the position. I watch Gabriel Jesus, Lamine, Gordon, Adeyemi to learn more.”
Raphinha on retiring at Barcelona
“It’s a very proud feeling. Only we know what we’ve been through internally since we arrived at the club until now with Barça. I feel very proud of everything I’ve achieved at the club, both individually and collectively. And obviously, I hope to have more years here if possible. Obviously, if my legs allow me to continue playing at a high level, I would love to finish my career at the club.”
