Barcelona star admits he expected a higher finish in Ballon d’Or rankings | OneFootball

Barcelona star Raphinha has confirmed that he expected a higher finish in this year’s Ballon d’Or standings.

The subject of wide-man Raphinha’s 5th-placed ‘Golden Ball’ finish of course sparked widespread chatter across the world of football.

This came amid the general consensus that, after racking up over 60 goal contributions in 2024/25, the Brazilian was hard done by on the part of the voters.

Speaking during an interview with GQ magazine (as cited by Diario Sport), this week, Raphinha was therefore asked for his take on the situation.

And the former Leeds United man did not hesitate in admitting:

“It was a personal disappointment. When you give yourself so much, work every day, and feel like you had an amazing season, you naturally expect to be among the best. Finishing fifth was an honour, of course, but my expectations were higher.”

Raphinha has since been hit with further disappointment early this week, too, after being left out of the FIFPRO World XI.

Conor Laird – GSFN