RismadarVoice Reporters
September 18, 2026
Barcelona captain Raphinha says he hopes to extend his contract with the Spanish club and eventually retire at the Camp Nou after making a prolific start to the new season.
The Brazil international has been deployed as a central forward following Barcelona’s departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, a role he has quickly adapted to with 11 goals in seven matches.
Speaking to RAC1 radio on Friday, the 29-year-old said he was interested in extending his stay beyond his current contract, which runs until 2028.
Raphinha said he initially viewed the 2028 expiry date as a point when he would be around 30 or 31 and was uncertain about what his future would hold. However, his strong performances have changed his outlook.
He said he would be pleased to remain at Barcelona for several more years and, if possible, conclude his professional career at the club.
Raphinha was handed the Barcelona captaincy at the beginning of the season following the departures of Ronald Araujo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, alongside Frenkie de Jong’s absence through a knee injury.
The winger joined Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022. His fortunes improved significantly after Hansi Flick took over as coach in 2024, following a period in which Raphinha had reportedly become frustrated under former manager Xavi Hernandez.
Since joining Barcelona, Raphinha has scored 86 goals in 184 appearances, with 66 of those goals coming during Flick’s tenure.
Flick has guided Barcelona to the La Liga title in each of his first two seasons in charge.
Raphinha was also on target three times in Barcelona’s 7-2 victory over Racing Santander on Wednesday, helping the Catalan side maintain their perfect start to the campaign.
Barcelona have won all seven of their matches so far, including a 5-1 victory over Feyenoord in their opening Champions League fixture.
The Catalan club currently sit three points ahead of Real Madrid and Real Betis before Saturday’s away match against fifth-placed Sevilla.
