Raphinha has become one of the standout players for FC Barcelona this season. Ahead of the match against Benfica, the Brazilian spoke with UEFA about his personal and professional growth, reflecting on the challenges he has overcome to reach this point.

"The truth is, I feel very happy and privileged to say that I am one of Barça's captains," he said proudly. The winger admitted that just a year ago, he wouldn’t have imagined taking on such an important role in the team: "Last season, I didn’t feel confident individually; I wasn’t consistent in my games."

Acknowledging his challenges, Raphinha highlighted his mindset as the key to his success: "I’ve always been a fighter, always striving to give my best on the pitch." However, the journey hasn’t been easy. He admitted that difficult moments led him to seek professional help to understand and manage his emotions.

"My confidence has changed, my way of thinking has changed, and this season I’m living the best moment of my career," said the player, who has established himself as a key figure for Barça.

The attacker also recalled how the challenges of his childhood shaped his character. His physique, often questioned, was a source of criticism: "I was very small and skinny. People said I didn’t have the strength or size to compete, but that motivated me to prove that football isn’t about size or strength."

Finally, Raphinha shared his admiration for the great Brazilian idols who inspired him to chase his dream: "Watching those players was spectacular, an enormous motivation to dedicate myself to professional football."

With this mentality of perseverance and commitment, Raphinha has solidified his place as one of the pillars of Xavi Hernández's project, proving that challenges are just stepping stones to success.