In the summer of 2022, Raphinha knew his time at Leeds United had come to an end. The Brazilian was Chelsea's main transfer target, and they were willing to pay up to 70 million euros for his transfer. However, the winger preferred to wait for FC Barcelona, who finally secured his signing for 58 million.

In the press conference prior to Tuesday's match at Stamford Bridge, Rapha was candid about how he handled the London club's interest, which also offered him a higher salary. "I had a dream and I wanted to fulfill it. I closed my eyes to other teams. I had a dream and I'm going for it. I did everything I could to join Barça," explained the Barça '11'.

Regarding Stamford Bridge, Rapha understands that both teams have changed a lot in recent years. What is clear to the South American striker is that each season is different and it will be a close match between two very powerful clubs.

"I believe each game is different. But it will be a spectacular match between two great teams. The one who makes fewer mistakes will win," argued the Porto Alegre native. Raphinha will start the match on the bench, marking his second appearance after being sidelined for the last seven weeks due to injury.

Raphinha's Self-Criticism for His Relapse

Raphinha training at the Ciutat Esportiva

The winger suffered an injury to his right femoral biceps on September 25 in Oviedo. In principle, his return was expected in mid-October, but the forward finally suffered two relapses that kept him out for almost 2 months. Regarding this, the '11' of Barça was self-critical, although he understands that the medical staff also made mistakes with his treatment

"The first was my fault and I take responsibility for the second. I should say no if I see it's not helping me. I take responsibility for both because I wanted to be back with the team quickly. I made a mistake and that's why I relapsed," Raphinha explainedIn turn, regarding his current physical condition, he added: "They were complicated moments. **He always wants to be on the field, helping and playing as many minutes as possible**. Returning after two months means I need game rhythm."

Likewise, he joked about the impact of his injury on Barça's collective performance. "I think I missed them more than they missed me. I aim to give my best. Offensively and defensively".

"Helping the team is something I do. If I see you need me, I'll do it. Whether it's carrying water, like the other day against Athletic. I try to pay attention to everything"

The Champions League, individual awards... Raphinha speaks his mind

Regarding the Champions League, a tournament in which he was the top scorer in the 24/25 season, Raphinha understands it is the main objective for a Barça that aspires to win everything again this season."Last year we were close to not being in the final, this year I see the team more mature. It's a very complicated competition. We will do our best to be in the final and win it". He also expressed his excitement about facing an opponent he has already scored against once while wearing the Leeds jersey.

"It's special to play in this stadium. I love it. I've scored and I hope to do it again tomorrow and help the team. If the coach plays me, I'll give my best," stated Rapha, who once again made his stance clear on his final position in the 2025 Ballon d'Or and other individual awards.

"I felt undervalued, I deserved much more. In collective awards, the Champions League was missing. Individual ones, I don't control them. It's more complicated. I'm satisfied, I had a spectacular season"