Raphinha Equals Lionel Messi’s Barcelona Record and Is Chasing Down Cristiano Ronaldo

In a season that has seen Barcelona’s Brazilian winger, Raphinha, explode into form, the player has not only silenced critics but also drawn comparisons to two of the greatest footballers of all time—Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

In what is shaping up to be one of the most unexpected turnarounds in recent Barcelona history, Raphinha’s blistering performances have made him one of the most influential players in the Champions League this season. His incredible contribution to Barcelona’s dominant 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals has now seen him equal Messi’s record for the most direct goal involvements in a single Champions League season for the club.

Raphinha’s Resurgence: From Criticism to Glory

Last summer, Raphinha’s future at Barcelona seemed uncertain. After a difficult first season in Catalonia, there were murmurs that the Brazilian international might be sold. Critics were quick to point out his inconsistencies and lack of impact on the pitch, with some even questioning whether he was up to the level required to play for a club like Barcelona.

At one point, a prominent Catalan influencer even posted a video of himself mocking Raphinha, replacing his name on the No. 11 shirt with that of Athletic Club’s Nico Williams—suggesting that Barcelona should look elsewhere for a winger. Raphinha, however, responded to this public disrespect with both grace and determination, choosing to focus on his football and let his performances on the pitch do the talking.

Fast forward to this season, and Raphinha is now one of Barcelona’s standout players. His blistering form in the Champions League has propelled Barcelona into a strong position to challenge for the prestigious trophy, and Raphinha is playing a key role in that success. The Brazilian’s transformation from a player under scrutiny to a vital cog in Barcelona’s attack has been nothing short of remarkable.

Raphinha’s Historic Performance Against Borussia Dortmund

Raphinha’s latest performance came in Barcelona’s thrilling 4-0 demolition of Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals. The match was goalless in the 25th minute when a low cross from Barcelona’s right-winger, Pau Cubarsi, was aimed towards the centre. As the ball crept across the line, Raphinha came from behind at speed and instinctively intervened, directing the ball into the net. His goal, although controversial as it appeared to have already crossed the line, was the Brazilian’s 12th of the season and a crucial moment in a dominant performance.

However, Raphinha wasn’t done there. He followed up with two assists in the same match, contributing directly to three of Barcelona’s four goals. This hat-trick of contributions in a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final has solidified Raphinha’s place as one of the most influential players in Europe this season.

The statistics are staggering: Raphinha now boasts 19 direct goal involvements in just 11 Champions League matches, which is the highest total ever achieved by a Barcelona player in the competition. To put that into perspective, Lionel Messi’s record in the 2011/12 season—widely regarded as one of the greatest individual seasons in Champions League history—was 14 goals and 5 assists, totaling 19 goal contributions. Raphinha has equaled Messi’s record in just 11 matches.

Raphinha and Messi: A Record-Breaking Season

Raphinha’s achievement of matching Messi’s 2011/12 tally is significant, considering the shadow Messi’s legacy casts over Barcelona’s history. The Argentine icon remains the club’s all-time top scorer and playmaker, with his performances in the Champions League over the years setting a benchmark that has yet to be surpassed. However, in the 2024/25 season, Raphinha’s form has brought him on par with Messi’s numbers.

The Brazilian’s current tally of 19 direct goal contributions (12 goals and 7 assists) places him among the elite company of the competition’s most prolific players. Messi’s 2011/12 record of 19 goal contributions (14 goals and 5 assists) was considered untouchable for years. Yet, here is Raphinha, breaking records and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with one of the greatest players ever to grace the game.

Chasing Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record

Raphinha’s goal contributions are not just limited to Messi’s numbers. As he continues his blistering run of form, the Brazilian is now on course to challenge Cristiano Ronaldo’s all-time Champions League record for the most goal contributions in a single season. Ronaldo holds the top spot with 22 goal contributions (17 goals and 5 assists) in the 2013/14 season with Real Madrid. He also reached 20 contributions (16 goals, 4 assists) in the 2015/16 campaign.

With Barcelona still in the competition, Raphinha has the opportunity to surpass both Ronaldo and Messi, and potentially break the all-time record for goal involvements in a single Champions League season. Currently sitting at 19, Raphinha needs just four more contributions (goals or assists) to surpass Ronaldo’s 2015/16 record. With Barcelona still alive in the competition and four more matches to play, Raphinha has more than enough time to continue his sensational run and possibly etch his name into Champions League history.

Raphinha’s Unstoppable Form and Barcelona’s Trophy Aspirations

Raphinha’s remarkable form comes at a crucial time for Barcelona, who are currently competing on three fronts: La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey. The Brazilian winger has been central to Barcelona’s title hopes, with his performances helping to lift the team in key moments. Whether it’s his clinical finishing, his ability to create chances for teammates, or his relentless work rate, Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s most consistent performers this season.

For Barcelona fans, Raphinha’s resurgence has been nothing short of a revelation. Many had questioned whether he would ever live up to the potential that made him one of the most sought-after players in Europe before his move to the Catalan giants. But now, with every game that passes, Raphinha continues to prove that he is more than capable of handling the pressure of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Raphinha’s development this season has also been a testament to the faith Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has placed in him. The Brazilian has been entrusted with more responsibility in the attack, and he has repaid that faith in spades. His growing understanding with his teammates, his maturity on the ball, and his ability to perform on the biggest stage have made him an indispensable part of Barcelona’s squad.

From Criticism to Respect

Raphinha’s transformation from a player under scrutiny to one of Barcelona’s most influential stars is a story of resilience and determination. After facing heavy criticism and calls for his departure last summer, Raphinha has emerged as the team’s most important player. His ability to silence his doubters has earned him the respect he deserves, not only from Barcelona fans but from the footballing world at large.

As he continues to chase down records set by the likes of Messi and Ronaldo, Raphinha’s journey is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football. One season can change everything, and for Raphinha, the 2024/25 season could go down as the year he became a Barcelona legend in his own right.

The Future Looks Bright for Raphinha

With Raphinha’s future firmly in his hands, Barcelona fans have every reason to be excited about the Brazilian’s prospects. His form in the Champions League is just the latest chapter in what could become a legendary career at the Camp Nou. As Raphinha closes in on the records of Messi and Ronaldo, one thing is certain: this is only the beginning for the talented winger. If his current form continues, Raphinha could soon be regarded as one of the greats in Barcelona’s storied history.

For now, though, Raphinha is focused on the task at hand—helping Barcelona achieve glory in the Champions League and beyond. And with his current form, there’s no telling just how far he can go.