Raphinha has candidly addressed the swirling speculation about his future amid lucrative overtures from Saudi Arabia.
The Brazilian international, who extended his contract to 2028 earlier this year, has repeatedly faced speculation linking him to lucrative moves abroad, particularly from the oil-rich Saudi Pro League clubs that have targeted elite wingers with transformative offers.
Despite rejecting substantial bids in previous windows and publicly affirming his commitment to the Blaugrana project, fresh rumours have reignited debate about his long-term future at Camp Nou, testing the winger’s resolve against financial temptations that could reshape his career trajectory.
Raphinha has spoken out about the persistent Saudi links, forcefully dismissing reports of a verbal agreement with Deco to facilitate a post-2026 World Cup exit as “nonsense” and reaffirming his commitment to Barcelona, as reported by Goal.
The 28-year-old, speaking amid a frustrating injury spell that sidelined him for over two months, hit back at claims from outlets like Barca Universal suggesting Barcelona would greenlight a departure if Saudi suitors met a hefty release clause activated next summer.
“These are just rumours. I’m happy here and focused on contributing to the team,” he stated, echoing his rejection of €100 100m-plus overtures from Al-Nassr and others in 2024.
The speculation stems from Barcelona’s financial realities, where high-profile sales remain a tool for squad reinvestment, even for captains like Raphinha, whose energy, pressing, and 59 goal involvements last season proved invaluable.
Saudi clubs, including Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli, continue circling, viewing his pace, dribbling, and big-game mentality as ideal for their star-studded lineups.
Yet Raphinha, who works without an agent to avoid external pressure, has consistently prioritised sporting ambition over wealth, turning down life-changing sums to chase La Liga and Champions League glory.
His recent return has revitalised Barcelona’s attack, but the Saudi narrative persists, fueled by the league’s aggressive recruitment.
For now, Raphinha’s message is clear: loyalty to Flick’s project trumps Middle Eastern riches, though the 2026 World Cup looms as a potential pivot point.
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