Raphinha reveals he nearly left Barcelona for Saudi Arabia before Hansi Flick intervention

The Brazil international, 28, told ESPN that a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia was "really tempting" and would have significantly improved the lives of both himself and his family. Reports at the time linked him with a 100 million euros transfer and a four-year deal worth up to 170 million euros.

"I thought it might be time to leave," Raphinha said. "The offer we had from Saudi Arabia really tempted me. It would have solved not just my personal life, but also the lives of my parents, my son - a lot of people."

Raphinha had endured two inconsistent seasons following his 2022 move from Leeds United, and with Barcelona under financial pressure, the club appeared open to a sale. The situation was compounded by rumours of Barca's interest in Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, which Raphinha admitted affected him personally.

"A lot of people wanted me out," he said. "Maybe they expected 30 goals a season. I'm not that kind of player - I bring work rate, commitment, and effort."

However, a phone call from Flick ahead of preseason changed the course of Raphinha's career. The new manager expressed confidence in the winger's role within his system and convinced him to remain at the club. Raphinha later described the conversation as a turning point.

Under Flick, the Brazilian had a breakout 2024â-25 campaign, scoring 34 goals and providing 26 assists across 57 appearances as Barcelona won LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa. His performances earned him a new contract through 2028 and a fifth-place finish in the 2025 Ballon d'Or voting.

He began the 2025â-26 season in solid form, registering three goals and two assists in seven appearances, but has missed Barcelona's last three matches due to a thigh injury. Sources close to the club indicate he is unlikely to return for Saturday's La Liga clash with Girona but is expected to be fit in time for the El Clasico against Real Madrid on October 26.

Barcelona have also lost key players Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo to injury in recent weeks, with Raphinha's return expected to provide a timely boost.

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