Rodri champions Raphinha for the Bola de Ouro after surprise season

Rodri praised Raphinha as the player who most surprised him this season and urged his inclusion in the Bola de Ouro, saying the Brazilian’s performances for Barcelona merit recognition alongside Pedri. During an interview with El Partidazo on COPE, the Spanish midfielder highlighted the gap between his club form and his national team role.

Ballon d'Or nominations debated

The national team discussion has centred on whether Raphinha deserves a place among the Bola de Ouro nominees. Rodri told El Partidazo that both Pedri and Raphinha should be nominated without doubt, calling the Brazilian the player who most surprised him this season.

Rodri also highlighted Lamine Yamal as a candidate and said he would like to see a Spanish player lift the trophy, noting that many deserve the honour.

In the same interview the midfielder revealed that Real Madrid had shown interest from the outset. He said the club made proposals to pursue him, describing the approach as persistent.

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Rodri added that he spoke with José Mourinho during the transfer saga. Mourinho outlined his ideas and the role he envisaged for Raphinha, but Rodri ultimately chose Barcelona, citing the sporting project and the chance to lead a youthful side.

Raphinha has shone at the start of Barcelona’s season and will be joined by fellow Brazilian Gabriel Jesus, reinforcing the attack.

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The contrast between his club form and his limited impact for the national side underscores why Rodri feels compelled to defend Raphinha’s case for the Bola de Ouro.