Ballon d'Or for Raphinha? His impressive numbers support it

Once again, Raphinha was the standout figure of FC Barcelona. This time, against Benfica at the Estádio da Luz, the Brazilian donned the hero's cape and scored a brace that allowed Hansi Flick's team to achieve a comeback that will be remembered by Barcelona fans and in the history of the Champions League.

With these two goals, the winger further increased his impressive records this season. In fact, if he maintains the level shown so far, the player is projected to become a serious candidate to win the Ballon d'Or.

In the 30 matches he has played this season, Raphinha has already accumulated 22 goals: 11 in 20 matches in LaLiga, 8 in 7 Champions matches, 2 in 2 Supercopa de España matches, and 1 against Betis in the Copa del Rey. Additionally, he has provided 10 assists across all competitions, bringing his goal production to an impressive total of 32 G/A.

Raphinha, one step away from matching Vinicius

These records leave 'Rapha' one step away from matching the numbers that made Vinicius Jr. one of the top candidates to win the Ballon d'Or last season. The '7' of Real Madrid, who lost the award to Rodri, scored 24 goals and provided 9 assists in 39 matches played, so, with half a season still to play, the '11' from Barcelona aims to significantly improve these statistics.

If he achieves this, the forward would become a strong favorite to win the award given by France Football to the best player of the footballing year. Especially if Barça wins any major trophy, a highly probable scenario as the Catalans are fully engaged in the race for all titles. Thus, Raphinha is on track to become the third Brazilian, alongside Rivaldo and Ronaldinho, to win the Ballon d'Or while wearing the blue and garnet.