Barcelona captain Raphinha has expressed his desire to extend his contract with the Spanish giants beyond 2028 and eventually finish his playing career at the Catalan club. In an interview with Catalan radio station RAC1, Raphinha made his intentions known amid renewed speculation over his long-term future at the Camp Nou. He signed an extension with Barcelona in May 2025 that runs until June 30, 2028.
Raphinha, a 29-year-old Brazil international, said his current contract was originally designed to take him to the age of 30 or 31, but his impressive form has convinced him that he can continue playing at the highest level for several more years. His performances at the beginning of the current campaign have given him confidence that he still has several productive years ahead of him.
Raphinha opens the door to a new deal, saying he would be happy to prolong his stay with the club. When he agreed to his existing contract, he was unsure about the physical condition he would be in when he reached his early thirties. The Brazilian added that he hopes to remain at Barcelona until the end of his professional career rather than moving to another club.
While Raphinha has made his preference clear, Barcelona have yet to announce an agreement for a further extension. His current contract, officially renewed in May 2025, keeps him at the club until June 30, 2028. Barcelona confirmed at the time that the Brazilian had signed the new agreement in the presence of president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco.
Raphinha’s comments mark a significant change from the transfer speculation that surrounded his future during previous windows. The Brazilian was linked with a possible departure from Barcelona, including interest from clubs outside Europe. However, he remained with the Catalan side and has subsequently become an increasingly important figure under manager Hansi Flick.
Raphinha’s desire to stay comes at a time when he is enjoying an outstanding start to the campaign. He has been used in a more central attacking role following changes to Barcelona’s forward line and has responded with a prolific scoring run. According to AFP, he had 11 goals and three assists in his opening seven appearances of the season, including a hat-trick against Racing Santander.
Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022 and has since established himself as a key member of the team. With his current deal still having almost two seasons to run, Raphinha’s latest comments could provide the basis for discussions over a longer commitment. He was appointed as Barcelona's first captain this season, placing greater responsibility on the forward both on and off the pitch.
Key points
- Raphinha wants to extend his contract with Barcelona beyond 2028.
- Raphinha has had an outstanding start to the campaign with 11 goals and three assists in his opening seven appearances.
- Raphinha was appointed as Barcelona's first captain this season.
