Raphinha Ballon d’Or snub: Barcelona star told he would miss out on ‘top three’ regardless – despite posting R9-esque goal numbers for La Liga champions
Barca boss Hansi Flick has said of Raphinha’s shock Ballon d’Or snub: “He is far too good not to be on that list, but we can’t change it, He’s on another level – he’s unbelievable.”
Sporting director Deco added: “In my opinion, it’s a scandal that Pedri and Raphinha are not in the Ballon d’Or top 30. They absolutely deserve to be there.”
After watching Raphinha walk away with the match ball after an inspirational performance against his team at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan, Sevilla coach Luis Garcia told reporters: “It’s a joke that he’s not even nominated for the Ballon d’Or. He is a match-winner, that’s why I don’t believe in these prizes. He does everything.”
Former Blaugrana manager Quique Setien is another that believes Raphinha should be competing for first prize, never mind making the Ballon d’Or list. He has said: “There’s no need to overthink it. I’d give it to Raphinha right now.
“I’m absolutely certain of it. Because he’s the best player. And he’s not only the most effective and the one who plays the most, but he’s also the one who runs the most, works the hardest, and helps his team the most. He’s an absolutely complete footballer.”
