Last season, Raphinha compiled 34 goals and 27 assists in 54 matches. An impressive performance which allowed FC Barcelona to win La Liga and reach the semi-final of the Champions League. However, the Brazilian winger only finished in fifth place in the Ballon d’Or. Worse still, the former Rennes player did not appear in the eleven of the year during FIFA’s The Best ceremony. An affront that really does not go down in Catalonia where Hansi Flick decided to rant this Saturday at a press conference:
“ For me, it’s incredible. It’s not that bad, because I don’t focus too much on the eleven type, but FIFA’s decision is a farce. When I saw that Raphinha wasn’t there, I was stunned. He was essential for us last season. He was involved in 22 goals and assists in the Champions League, in the premier competition. If you look at his goals, his assists and his influence, it was impressive. It’s not fair to him. It’s a shame. I can’t believe he’s not in the world eleven. After such a season, he fully deserves it. It’s simply incredible. »
