When talking about standout footballers in 2025, Raphael Dias Belloli—better known to the world as Raphinha—isn’t just in the conversation. He is the conversation.
After a somewhat underwhelming start in La Liga, the Brazilian winger unleashed his full potential this season, racking up 18 goals and 11 assists across 36 appearances. Those aren’t just good numbers—they’re MVP numbers. And yes, La Liga agrees.
⚡ Hansi Flick + Raphinha = Tactical Fireworks
The hiring of Hansi Flick as Barça’s new boss turned out to be a masterstroke—not just for team cohesion, but specifically for unleashing Raphinha’s inner beast.
Flick’s emphasis on high pressing and wide attacking lanes gave Raphinha the green light to do what he does best: torch full-backs like marshmallows at a campfire.
In a league often dominated by stat-padding forwards and midfield maestros, a winger leading the MVP race? That’s not just rare—it’s revolutionary.
🎯 Not Just a Finisher—Also a Creator-in-Chief
Sure, 18 goals would turn heads. But 11 assists? That’s where Raphinha flexed his all-round muscle.
He ranked second in La Liga’s assist chart, only behind his teenage teammate Lamine Yamal. (Yes, the kid who still needs a permission slip to travel with the team.)
From inch-perfect cutbacks to cheeky backheel flicks, Raphinha’s passing menu had everything—except maybe soup. But we’ll let that slide.
📈 From Sidekick to Superhero: A Career-Leap Season
Let’s rewind the tape.
- 2022/23: 7 goals – Decent.
- 2023/24: 6 goals – Hmm, regression?
- 2024/25: 18 goals, 11 assists – Hold my Guaraná.
That’s a transformation arc worthy of a Netflix docuseries. And with Flick pulling the tactical strings, Raphinha turned into Barça’s offensive metronome—equal parts flamethrower and scalpel.
💰 188BET Insights: Odds and Upsets
Before the season, 188BET had Raphinha at 25:1 odds to win La Liga MVP. Smart bettors who trusted the Brazilian winger’s breakout were handsomely rewarded.
Throughout the campaign, his odds shortened rapidly—especially after his hat trick against Atlético and assist-fueled showdowns with Sevilla and Betis. He became a hot commodity on betting slips, and by March, 188BET featured him in weekly special markets for “Goal + Assist Doubles.”
🙋 FAQ – People Also Ask
He’s a Brazilian footballer widely known as Raphinha. Currently playing for FC Barcelona, he just won the 2024/25 La Liga MVP after scoring 18 goals and providing 11 assists.
Dribbling, pace, precise crossing, long shots, and—apparently—silencing critics with jaw-dropping numbers.
Yes! His unpredictable playstyle and goal/assist combo made him a favorite in 188BET’s player specials throughout the season.
Flick’s system empowered Raphinha to be more aggressive in attack, giving him space and tactical freedom—leading to his best season yet.
He plays primarily as a right winger, though he’s comfortable cutting inside or switching flanks when needed.
His explosive stats, game-changing moments, and consistent performances under new coach Hansi Flick made him the standout performer of the season.
📌 Final Whistle: A Star Reborn in Blaugrana
Raphael Dias Belloli’s evolution into an elite-level winger didn’t happen overnight. But in 2024/25, it exploded into the mainstream.
With the MVP trophy in hand, a new tactical guru at the helm, and Barcelona once again climbing the mountaintop, it’s clear: Raphinha isn’t just a moment—he’s a movement.
👉 Think he’s just getting started? Drop your thoughts below or explore more on La Liga’s next breakout stars.
Raj Malhotra