Raphinha finishes 5th in 2025 Ballon d’Or after a stellar season with Barcelona. Discover his career, style, and personal life.
It was a night to remember at the 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony. Although Ousmane Dembélé won the most coveted award, Raphinha was the other notable nominee. Despite an incredible campaign with Barcelona, finishing fifth in the standings incited controversies among people and experts alike. Neymar even poked fun at the position, saying it was a "joke." However, Raphinha's 2024–25 campaign continues to be exceptional and solidifies his status among the best wingers in the world.
Raphael Dias Belloli, well known by the nickname Raphinha, was born on 14 December 1996 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He spent his youth in Restinga, a favela located far away from the city center, and his life there was difficult. His father was Italian by origin and was a musician by profession, and his mother is mixed-race Brazilian. Raphinha and his parents and brother frequently shared a tiny bedroom, at times being unable to afford even basic items.
He played in local várzea competitions, amateur games arranged by communities that disciplined him in tough conditions. Raphinha's early childhood exposure to football and close relationship with Bruno Fernandes prior to Sporting CP influenced his playing style and tenacity.
Avaí: Raphinha started his career at the age of 18 with Brazilian club Avaí. After some early injuries and set-backs, he proved his worth in Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior.
Vitória de Guimarães: In 2016, he transferred to Portugal, joining Vitória de Guimarães, courtesy of Deco, who noticed his potential. Raphinha established himself as an important figure, netting 18 goals in the 2017–18 campaign and being hailed as the club's revelation star.
Sporting CP: Raphinha moved to Sporting CP in 2018, claiming the Taça de Portugal and Taça da Liga in 2019. In spite of injury delays, he kept honing his skills and technical game.
Rennes & Leeds United: Raphinha transferred to Rennes in 2019 for €21 million and moved on to Leeds United in 2020 for £17 million. At Leeds, he emerged as the club's top scorer and assisted the team in securing Premier League status.
Barcelona: In 2022, Raphinha joined Barcelona on a €58 million contract. Early on, he struggled with consistency in La Liga but gradually became key under Hansi Flick. His 2024–25 campaign featured him being instrumental in Barcelona's domestic treble and topping the Champions League scoring charts, solidifying his worldwide reputation.
Raphinha's career internationally started in 2021 with Brazil. He was included in the squads for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa América. Dribbling, pace, and finishing marked him as a prominent asset in Brazil's attack. His performances at the international level earned him the attention, and his 5th place finish in the 2025 Ballon d'Or attests to his impressive 2024–25 campaign.
Raphinha is a malleable winger who plays mostly on the right side. With his left-footed moves, swift dribbles, and accurate passes, he creates chances to score. With Hansi Flick, he was converted into a central role behind the striker, taking advantage of gaps between defense and midfield of the opponent team. His agility, defensive effort, and tactical awareness make him a well-rounded attacking threat.
Off the field, Raphinha lives a personal yet content life. He is married to Natalia Rodrigues Belloli, Taia, and has a son named Gael. The couple got married in 2022. Raphinha's growing up in a tough environment influenced his humility, diligence, and dedication both on and off the field.
At Barcelona, Raphinha receives around ₹1,29,39,45,312 annually (~$1.6 million per month). His salary, plus endorsements and commercial contracts, further renders him one of the sport's financially stable stars. His glorious performances, coupled with big-money contracts, have aided him in creating a secure financial base and not merely excel at football.
Raphinha’s journey from a favela in Brazil to the global stage illustrates resilience, talent, and determination. His 2025 Ballon d’Or 5th place finish recognizes his breakthrough season and his crucial role in Barcelona’s domestic and European success. At just 28, Raphinha continues to evolve, promising even greater achievements for club and country.
