Raphinha has, at least for now, moved ahead of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Robert Lewandowski in Barcelona’s Champions League history books.
The Brazil international forward has been in dazzling form this season, with 23 goals being registered through 31 appearances in all competitions. The South American star is also into double figures when it comes to assists.
He added another two to that tally during his latest outing in continental competition. Raphinha starred for Barca as they played out a 2-2 draw with Atalanta in the final round of Champions League league phase fixtures.
Raphinha teed up efforts for Lamine Yamal and Ronald Araujo. He has eight European goals and five assists to his name in the 2024-25 campaign. His overall tally of goal contributions in that competition has allowed him to rise above some legendary names in Catalunya.
In total, Raphinha averages a Champions League goal contribution for Barcelona every 75 minutes. Record scorer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi managed one every 80 minutes for the Blaugrana, while Neymar comes in at 95 minutes, Hristo Stoichkov 97, and prolific Polish striker Lewandowski 101.
Raphinha, who has filled the captain’s armband at times for Barca this season, has seen his form generate Ballon d’Or talk. Impressive standards will need to be maintained in order to challenge for the most prestigious of Golden Balls, but the 28-year-old is enjoying the most productive spell of his career.
