WATCH: Barcelona's Raphinha Scores A Brilliant Free-Kick
The Brazilian Attacker Gave Brazil an Early Lead
Brazil wasted no time in taking the lead against Venezuela in their international friendly, with Raphinha firing the Selecao ahead with a stunning free-kick from 20 yards out. The Barcelona winger curled the ball over the Venezuelan goalkeeper Wuilker Faríñez and into the top corner of the net, giving Brazil an early 1-0 lead. Raphinha's goal was his second for Brazil, after scoring his first in the Copa America last year.
Raphinha Signs A Five Year Contract
Raphinha has signed a five-year contract with Barcelona after completing his €58 million ($63 million) transfer from Leeds United, the Spanish club announced on Friday. The Brazil winger impressed for Leeds after joining from Rennes in 2020 and has earned three caps for his country. His arrival at the Nou Camp will give Barcelona coach Xavi another attacking option, with the club having lost Ousmane Dembele and Adama Traore this summer. Raphinha made his debut in a pre-season friendly against Inter Miami on Tuesday and is in contention to start against Real Madrid in the Clasico on Saturday.
Raphinha Was Vital For Leeds
Raphinha was a key player for Leeds last season, scoring 11 goals and providing three assists in 35 Premier League appearances. He was also a regular in the Brazil squad, making three appearances and scoring one goal. Raphinha's performances for Leeds earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Year and he was also nominated for the Premier League Player of the Season award. His departure from Leeds will be a blow to the club, but Raphinha will be hoping to make an immediate impact at Barcelona. He will be aiming to help the club win its first La Liga title since 2019 and will also be hoping to impress Brazil coach Tite ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Raphinha Aims For Success At Barca
Raphinha has spoken of his delight at joining Barcelona and says he is determined to achieve great things at the club. "I am very happy to be here," Raphinha said. "Barcelona is a great club with a rich history and I am very excited to be a part of it. I want to win trophies here and I want to help the team achieve its goals. I am confident that we can achieve great things together." Raphinha's arrival at Barcelona is a major coup for the club and he will be expected to play a key role in their quest for success in the coming years.
