Barcelona celebrity tipped for the Ballon d’Or by former midfielder – ‘He is the chief’

As we strategy the ultimate part of the marketing campaign, it’s honest to say that Raphinha has been the most effective performers in European soccer this season.

The previous Leeds United attacker has rejuvenated himself below the management of Hansi Flick and has racked up a formidable 27 objectives and 20 assists in simply 42 aggressive matches this season.

Raphinha’s statistics this season examine with among the greatest gamers in Barcelona’s historical past, together with Neymar himself.

Due to this fact, there have been murmurs inside the footballing neighborhood over Raphinha doubtlessly changing into a 2025 Ballon d’Or candidate.

These rumours have been additional fueled by former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta, who backed Raphinha as one of many prime contenders to win the Ballon d’Or this 12 months.

What Mendieta stated about Raphinha

In a latest dialog with MARCA on the event of his birthday, Mendieta supplied his ideas on Raphinha, hailing his performances and management qualities.

“For me, he’s a candidate for the Ballon d’Or for his numbers, his efficiency, and for being a number one captain. We noticed within the match towards Atletico that he fights for the final ball to attain one other objective. He’s the chief a workforce like Barça wants,” he stated.

Will Raphinha win the Ballon d’Or this 12 months? (Picture by Buda Mendes/Getty Photographs)

Gaizka additionally talked about Raphinha’s latest incident towards Argentina’s Nicolas Otamendi whereas he was taking part in for Brazil through the worldwide break.

“Whenever you make sure statements, you’re taking a danger and you’ll rapidly stroll away along with your ears down. I don’t assume he did it to impress, however quite he received carried away by emotion and by what that match means for Brazil and Argentina,” he stated.

Mendieta performed for Barcelona for just one season between 2002 to 2003, earlier than becoming a member of Lazio. Nevertheless, he featured in virtually 50 aggressive matches for the Blaugrana throughout his temporary spell.

Speaking concerning the present type of his former workforce, Mendieta highlighted the position performed by Hansi Flick this season.

“He’s the individual most accountable for Barça’s excessive degree. He’s introduced out nice performances from very younger gamers like Lamine, Cubarsi, Fermin… who’re acting at a spectacular degree, as in the event that they’ve been taking part in all their lives,” he concluded.