Raphinha talks his future at Barcelona, El Clasico, Lewandowski, Yamal in recent interview | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to play a crucial game against Real Madrid today, and as has been the case for the entirety of this season, the winger Raphinha would be one of the main protagonists.

In fact, he has enjoyed a bit of spotlight even before the game as he appeared in an interview in which he talked about different aspects of his career at Barcelona and the upcoming El Clásico.

Raphinha talks his renewal and career at Barcelona

As Mundo Deportivo has reported, one of the main highlights of the interview was when the Brazilian was asked what’s next in store for him at Barcelona, to which he gave a short but clear reply: “My renewal.”

Further talking about the Blaugrana club, the winger admitted that he had not even dreamed of reaching the heights with the Catalan club that he has recently:

Talking about the great season he has had, Raphinha seemed satisfied with his work:

“I’m working hard to give my best. I think I’m doing well, and I hope to keep it that way.”

El Clasico and relationship with Lewandowski and Yamal

The Brazilian also opened up on how the environment is during an El Clásico:

“Clásicos are lived like a final. It’s a different match, something special. The city comes to a halt. The whole world watches it… Up until the moment you enter the stadium, everything is very tense before the Clásico. Tension is normal in every match, but this one is more intense.”

The winger was not picking up a favorite for this game but ensured Barcelona are fully prepared:

“Both of us are fighting for La Liga—there’s no better or worse team here. I think we’re well prepared and will get a great result. Being able to play and score in the Clásico is special for me, but the most important thing is winning, whether I score or not. Winning is what matters.”

Talking about his relationship with Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha commented:

“When I arrived, I spoke a lot with Lewandowski. It’s incredible how he’s reached this age and still does what he does. We should seek advice from people with experience.”

Barcelona players celebrate after scoring against Real Madrid. [Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images]

The Brazilian star also opened up on his feelings when he was named the team’s captain:

“I was really moved when the coach said I would be one of the captains, because honestly, I didn’t expect it.”

Now, he is also playing the role of a mentor, especially with Lamine Yamal:

“I use what I’ve learned throughout the years of my football career to try to give the best advice to Lamine Yamal.”

Lastly, Raphinha expressed his happiness on reaching Neymar’s numbers with Barcelona:

Raphinha still has a contract with the Blaugrana club till 2027, but the two sides are already negotiating a renewal. His words in this interview show his keenness to remain at the Catalan club, and hopefully, there would be no problem in the two sides reaching an agreement for this purpose.