Some insist Raphinha has serious family and money troubles, row erupts | OneFootball

Raphinha found his name caught up in an unexpected controversy after Vampeta claimed that the former Sporting player was considering leaving Barcelona for Saudi Arabia due to alleged family and financial problems. However, the former Brazil international’s version was quickly denied by someone close to the forward.

“Raphinha also has a serious family and financial problem. He is praying to see if he goes to Al Hilal. He is counting on the move to turn things around,” he said.

The remarks did not go unnoticed and prompted an immediate response. Igor Padilha, the player’s cousin, took to social media to categorically deny the scenario described by Vampeta. “You’ll have to explain those lies, my friend”, he wrote in response to a post repeating the former Brazilian midfielder’s words.

The controversy comes at a time when Raphinha remains one of Barcelona’s most important figures. Signed from Leeds United in 2022 for around €58 million, the former Sporting player has fully won over the Catalan fans and become a key part of the team coached by Hansi Flick.

At 29, the Brazil international has already made 177 appearances, scored 75 goals and provided 52 assists for the Catalan club. With a contract until 2028, Raphinha continues to enjoy the full confidence of Barcelona’s hierarchy and is seen by Deco and the club’s blaugrana decision-makers as one of the pillars of the sporting project for the coming seasons.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.