"One of the best in the world" - Barcelona legend Romario heaps praises on 27-year-old star following superb start to life under Hansi Flick

Former Brazil and Barcelona player Romario has heaped praise on Raphinha following his amazing start to the 2024-25 season under Hansi Flick. Romario reckons that his compatriot is one of the best in the world and also a pride for all Brazilians.

Raphinha has flipped the narrative regarding his football abilities as he has proven to be one of Barcelona’s best players this season. He has already notched up 22 goal contributions in 17 games for the Catalan club this term.

Apart from La Blaugrana, the 27-year-old has also been instrumental for Brazil, scoring his country’s lone goal in their frustrating 1-1 draw against Venezuela last week. Raphinha’s numbers and performances seem to have caught Romario’s attention. Romario gave his assessment about Barcelona’s form this season and was effusive in his praise for Raphinha.

“Barca now have a great team. They’ve won some good games and played well. I think we’ll be champions again this year,” Romario told Mundo Deportivo (via GOAL).

“Raphinha is one of the best players today. He is one of the best in the world. He does very well with the Barca shirt and he is also doing very well with the Brazilian shirt. Raphinha is a pride for all Brazilians, he will give us very special things in football.”

Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022 for a reported fee of €55 million. He has scored 32 goals and provided 35 assists for the Catalan club in 104 appearances across competitions.

Barcelona unwilling to accept €90 million Arsenal offer for Raphinha – Reports

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes.net, Barcelona will not accept Arsenal’s offer for Raphinha. The Gunners are ready to make a €90 million bid ahead of the January transfer window given the 27-year-old's performances this season.

According to reports, Barcelona were willing to sell Raphinha in the summer given their financial issues. Raphinha’s exit looked imminent at the time, as La Blaugrana were reportedly keen on signing Nico Williams, with speculation rife that the club would part ways with him if they could comply with La Liga's 1:1 rule.

Under Xavi Hernandez, Raphinha struggled for form and was consequently low in the squad's pecking order. But the story has changed since Hansi Flick took over the reins, and Raphinha’s impact has been clear.

The former Leeds player has been phenomenal this season and has caught the attention of Arsenal. The Gunners want to keep building their squad to compete at the highest level domestically and in Europe and see the 27-year-old as the ideal player to lead their attack.