Youth and Career Beginnings

Raphael Dias Belloli, known as Raphinha, was born on 14 December 1996 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He began his football career in the youth academy of Avaí, where his talent quickly attracted attention. In 2016, he moved to Europe and joined Vitória de Guimarães in Portugal. After playing for the B team in his first season, he was promoted to the senior squad, where he delivered an impressive performance with 19 goals in 65 league appearances.

Football Career

In 2018, Raphinha transferred to Sporting CP, one of Portugal’s most historic clubs, where he won the Taça de Portugal and Taça da Liga. He scored 6 goals in 28 league appearances for Sporting. In 2019, he moved to Rennes of France and made his name in Ligue 1, scoring 6 goals in 28 league matches.

In 2020, Raphinha joined Leeds United of the English Premier League, where he delivered an outstanding performance over two seasons. He made 65 league appearances for Leeds, scoring 17 goals and providing 12 assists. He became one of the most notable players in the Premier League due to his Fast and technical style of play.

In July 2022, Raphinha transferred to Spanish giant FC Barcelona, where he continued his impressive form. During the 2024-2025 season, he gained particular recognition for his outstanding performances in the UEFA Champions League. In the first leg of the quarter final match against Borussia Dortmund, he scored one goal and provided two assists, playing a decisive important role in his team’s 4-0 victory. With this match, he took his Champions League goal contribution to 12 goals and 7 assists, matching Lionel Messi’s club record from the 2011-2012 season.

Raphinha was first called up to the Brazil national team in 2021 and has since scored 11 goals in 33 appearances. He represented Brazil at the 2022 FIFA World World Cup and the 2024 Copa América. His performances for the national team have also earned him widespread acclaim.

Playing Style

Raphinha is a left-footed player who typically operates on the right wing. He is known for his technical ability, pace and agility. His Top kohl skills and sudden changes of direction frequently leave defenders in difficult positions. Under head coach Hansi Flick at Barcelona, Raphinha has evolved from a traditional winger into a second striker, creating more goal-scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Trophies and Achievements

Throughout his professional football career, Raphinha has achieved numerous successes at both club and individual levels.

Sporting CP (2018-2019)

• Taça de Portugal (Portuguese Cup): Won the prestigious trophy with Sporting CP in the 2018-2019 season.
• Taça da Liga (Portuguese League Cup): Won the League Cup with Sporting CP in the same season.

FC Barcelona

• La Liga Championship: Won the Spanish La Liga title with Barcelona in the 2022-2023 season.
• Supercopa de España (Spanish Super Cup): Won this trophy twice with Barcelona in 2023 and 2025.

Individual Accolades

• Vitória de Guimarães Breakthrough Player of the Year: Awarded this honor in 2017.
• La Liga Player of the Month: Named Player of the Month in August 2024.
• Supercopa de España Tournament Player: Recognized with this award in 2025.

Raphinha’s career achievements highlight his exceptional talent and significant contributions to the game.