Raphinha Stands By His Comments About Argentina And Reignites The Controversy
The Barcelona winger addressed his explosive pre-match remarks against Argentina and made it clear he has no regrets: “I’ll defend my national team however I need to.”
From bold prediction to a bitter defeat
Raphinha, one of FC Barcelona’s standout players this season, is making headlines again—and not just for his performances. After scoring in the 4–0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals, the Brazilian addressed the controversial comments he made ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Argentina.
Before that highly anticipated clash, Raphinha stirred the pot by saying Brazil would “thrash Argentina, on and off the pitch.” The result? A humiliating 4–1 defeat at the Monumental Stadium. The winger not only came up short on the field but also clashed with Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, and Dibu Martínez during the game.
Many expected him to walk back his words—but he didn’t. “I don’t regret anything I said. Maybe the way I said it was a bit harsh, but everyone interprets things differently,” he told reporters after the Champions League match.
“I’ll always defend my national team”
Instead of backing down, Raphinha doubled down on his message. “Defending my national team’s jersey is non-negotiable. It doesn’t matter who the opponent is—I’ll fight for mine,” he told TNT Sports Brasil.
Now 28, the former Leeds United man is having the best season of his career with Barcelona, but his passion for representing Brazil remains intense. “I meant what I said. I don’t play to please people—I play to defend my colors, whether it’s for Brazil or for Barcelona,” he added.
The comments have reignited tension between fans of Brazil and Argentina, two historic rivals. Even though Lionel Scaloni downplayed the situation after the match, the controversy has returned to the forefront of South American football.
A brilliant season fueled by fire
Despite the off-field noise, Raphinha is enjoying a stellar campaign: 12 goals and 7 assists in the Champions League, plus 13 goals in LaLiga, making him one of the driving forces in Barcelona’s title pursuit. He’s even matched Lionel Messi’s club record for most direct goal contributions in a single Champions League season.
But if there’s one thing Raphinha has made clear—it’s that his fiery personality and commitment won’t change. And if that means clashing with the Albiceleste again, he’s ready... no regrets.
