Barcelona legend Rivaldo has tipped forward Raphinha to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or award.
Rivaldo said the Brazilian international is having a great season and still remains in contention to win the top-individual prize this year despite Barcelona’s exit from the Champions League.
Recall that Barcelona were knocked out from the Champions League semi-final stage at the hands of Inter Milan in mid-week.
Speaking with SPORT, Rivaldo spoke about Raphinha’s Ballon d’Or chances this year.
He said (via Barca Universal): “He [Raphinha] could continue dreaming of the Ballon d’Or.
“Even so [Barcelona are out of Champions League], I think he still has a chance, because he is having a great season.”
Raphinha has scored 32 goals and provided 25 assists in 51 games for Barcelona so far this season.
The former Leeds United star has already won the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de Espana with Barca this season.
However, Barcelona’s exit from the Champions League has arguably diminished Raphinha’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
But If the Catalan club could beat Real Madrid in the LaLiga title race, Raphinha could still have a shot at the prestigious individual silverware.
Raphinha is currently the joint-top scorer in the Champions League this season alongside Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy.
Borh players have 13 goals each to their names in the Champions League this season.
