Rodri praises Raphinha's impact at Barcelona after position switch
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 3:00 AM
Last updated Sep 25, 2026
Rodri expressed surprise at Raphinha's performance at Barcelona, stating the Brazilian has adapted well to playing as a striker following the exits of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. Raphinha has made an immediate impact, scoring 14 goals across all competitions. Rodri believes both Raphinha and teammate Pedri should be contenders for the Ballon d'Or, a sentiment shared by many given their forms this season. Raphinha's early-season success has raised eyebrows, especially with him missing from the current Ballon d'Or shortlist.
- •Rodri identifies Raphinha as the most surprising player at Barcelona.
- •Raphinha has scored 14 goals in all competitions this season.
- •He transitioned to striker after Lewandowski and Torres departed.
- •Rodri believes Raphinha deserves a Ballon d'Or nomination.
- 3:00 AMYahoo Sports — ‘He told me he didn’t like to play as a No. 9’ – Rodri admits he’s been surprised by Raphinha at Barcelona
"The midfielder also says his team-mate should be up for the Ballon d’Or.
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