Barcelona captain Raphinha has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the Spanish champions until 2030, the club announced on Thursday.
The 29-year-old Brazilian forward, who joined the Catalan giants in 2022, was previously contracted until 2028.
Announcing the new deal, Barcelona described the extension as a statement of confidence in the winger’s leadership and importance to the club’s long-term project.
“A declaration of intent. Our dear captain will continue to lead our project until 2030,” the club said in a statement.
Raphinha had expressed his desire to extend his stay at Barcelona in September, revealing that he was open to spending the remainder of his playing career at the club.
The Brazilian has enjoyed an impressive run of form this season, scoring 19 goals and providing three assists in 13 appearances across all competitions.
The former Leeds United winger assumed the Barcelona captaincy at the start of the season following the departures of Ronald Araujo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
He has also adapted his role on the pitch, moving from his usual position on the wing into a more central attacking position to help fill the gap created by the departures of strikers Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.
Since German manager Hansi Flick took charge in 2024, Raphinha has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most influential attacking players, helping the club secure back-to-back La Liga titles.
His contract extension underscores Barcelona’s commitment to retaining one of its key players as the club continues to build for the future.
AFP
