Raphinha expressed his enthusiasm about the increased competition for offensive positions at Barcelona, following the arrival of Marcus Rashford.
The England international joined the team this month, on loan for a season from Manchester United, with the aim of bolstering an already formidable attack, including Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Robert Lewandowski.
When asked about Rashford's arrival and the resulting competition for playing time, he said: "When you wear this shirt and represent this club, it's essential to be prepared for any challenges that come your way."
I am convinced that increased competition inevitably brings benefits. As a result, one supports the other in their journey, and that is the very heart of any quest for recognition.
Lorsqu’on lui a posé des questions sur l’arrivée de Rashford et la concurrence qui en découle pour le temps de jeu, pour lui : « En portant ce maillot et en représentant ce club, il est essentiel d’être préparé à relever tous les défis qui se présentent. »
Je suis convaincu qu’une concurrence accrue engendre inévitablement des bénéfices. Il en résulte que l’un soutient l’autre dans son parcours, et c’est là le cœur même de toute quête de reconnaissance.
Raphinha described the past season as the most accomplished of his career, while acknowledging that there were still aspects he needed to refine.
The Brazilian international scored 34 goals and provided 25 assists in 56 games, while Barca triumphed in LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup.
"I constantly strive to give my best in training, in matches, and throughout the season," he said. A year ago, I embarked on this journey, and it turned out to be much more rewarding than the previous year. For the upcoming season, I am determined to give my best in order to surpass my previous achievements. Raphinha's prowess on the European stage is remarkable, with a total of 13 goals and nine assists in just 14 Champions League matches, while Barça reached the semi-finals.
Barca has not tasted victory in the prestigious European competition since 2015, and Raphinha is driven by a fervent determination to win his first trophy.
« Je m’efforce constamment de donner le meilleur de moi-même à l’entraînement, lors des matchs, et tout au long de la saison », a-t-il déclaré. Il y an un an, j’ai commencé cette aventure, et elle s’est avérée bien plus gratifiante que celle de l’année précédente. Pour la saison à venir, je suis résolu à offrir le meilleur de moi-même afin de surpasser mes réalisations antérieures. Les prouesses de Raphinha sur la scène européenne sont remarquables, avec un total de 13 buts et neuf passes décisives en seulement 14 matchs de Ligue des champions, tandis que le Barça a atteint les demi-finales.
Le Barça n’a pas goûté à la victoire dans la célèbre compétition européenne depuis 2015, et Raphinha est animé par une fervente détermination à remporter son premier trophée.
"The Champions League represents a major personal challenge in my career," Raphinha stated. The club aims to seize its sixth Champions League. As far as I am concerned, I will do everything to make it happen. I am convinced that every player feels this shared emotion.
Raphinha, aged 28, recently announced that he was extending his contract by one year, thus ensuring his presence at Barça until June 2028.