Imagine pouring your heart and soul into a record-breaking season, only to be completely overlooked by the very organization meant to celebrate excellence. That's exactly what happened to Barcelona's Raphinha, whose exclusion from the 2025 FIFPRO World XI has sparked a firestorm of debate and disappointment.
The Brazilian winger, fresh off the most prolific season of his career, was conspicuously absent from the star-studded lineup. With 34 goals and 22 assists, Raphinha was instrumental in Barcelona's treble-winning campaign, even helping them reach the Champions League semi-finals. His fifth-place finish in the Ballon d’Or voting further cemented his status as one of the world’s best. So, why wasn’t he included?
And this is the part most people miss: Raphinha’s omission isn’t just about stats—it’s about consistency, influence, and a winning mentality. While the FIFPRO XI featured midfield talents like Pedri, Vitinha, Cole Palmer, and Jude Bellingham, alongside attackers Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, and Ousmane Dembele, many argue that Raphinha’s contributions were equally, if not more, deserving of recognition.
But here’s where it gets controversial: The inclusion of Palmer and Bellingham over Raphinha has raised eyebrows, especially among Barça fans. Bellingham’s season, for instance, was marred by recurring shoulder injuries, yet he still made the cut. Is this a case of merit being overshadowed by popularity or name recognition?
Raphinha’s response to the snub was both subtle and powerful. Instead of words, he let his achievements speak for themselves, sharing 17 Instagram stories highlighting his trophies, milestones, and goal involvements. The recurring use of three laughing emojis in his posts was a clear, if understated, jab at the perceived injustice.
For Raphinha, this oversight should fuel his fire. His quiet defiance on social media speaks volumes about his character and determination. And for Barcelona, it’s a stark reminder that even the brightest seasons can go unrecognized.
But what do you think? Was Raphinha’s exclusion justified, or is this a glaring oversight by FIFPRO? Does popularity play too big a role in these selections? Let’s spark a conversation—share your thoughts in the comments below!
