“It was disrespectful towards me” - Raphinha calls out Barcelona fans following social media post involving Nico Williams in the summer
Barcelona attacker Raphinha has called out the club's fans after a series of social media posts in the summer calling for him to be replaced by Athletic Club youngster Nico Williams. The Brazilian claimed that he felt the supporters were 'disrespectful' towards him with the edits and posts online.
Raphinha has been one of the standout performers for Barcelona in the 2024-25 season. With six goals and eight assists in 12 appearances across all competitions, he has been a constant offensive threat for the Catalans in their new era under Hansi Flick.
However, things weren't smooth sailing for the 27-year-old last summer when he received flak for his inconsistent performances. He was also linked with a move away from Camp Nou, with top European sides and the Saudi Pro League interested in his services.
Before he decided to continue at San Mames, Williams was rumored to be Barca's top target to replace Raphinha. There was even a post on Instagram showcasing Williams in a No. 11 Blaugrana shirt (Raphinha's number), under which the Brazilian commented with some laughing emojis.
After his splendid start to the new campaign, Raphinha called for the fans to have more respect for their players. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, he said:
"The shirt thing was a bit funny, a joke in bad taste, in the end, I think people have to respect the players who are in the club. We are giving our best this season and seeing a photo like that doesn’t feel good to you. I feel like it was disrespectful but people do what they want and put the number they want."
After missing out on Williams, Barcelona ended up signing Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig for a reported €47 million.
"It's a huge pride" - Raphinha opens up on being named as one of Barcelona's captains under Hansi Flick
Brazilian winger Raphinha beamed with pride when asked how it felt to be one of Barcelona's five captains for the 2024-25 campaign. The 27-year-old stated that he is always willing to 'help everyone' whenever he can and that he is 'excited' to be able to don the armband.
Since his arrival at the club in the summer of 2022, Raphinha has made 99 appearances, bagging 26 goals and 33 assists in the process. After injuries to his fellow captains Pedri, Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong and Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, Raphinha has worn the armband for the past few weeks.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the winger spoke about how he relishes the responsibility of leading a relatively youthful team as an experienced campaigner. He said (via Barca Blaugranes):
"It's a huge pride to be able to wear the armband. I think being a captain is not just about wearing the armband. You have to be a captain in the dressing room and help the team in everything, both veterans and youngsters."
"You have to see if people are good or bad and if they need something. I tend to help everyone where I can. I'm always available to help. I’m very excited and happy to be one of the captains. There are a lot of players who have made history and worn this armband and it’s an honor," Raphinha concluded.
Raphinha will next be in action when Barcelona face Bayern Munich in a mouth-watering UEFA Champions League clash on October 23.