Raphinha calls out ‘disrespectful’ fans after Nico Williams transfer saga with in-form Barcelona winger now ‘working at 200 percent’ under Hansi Flick

Raphinha’s frustrations are rooted in Barcelona’s pursuit of Athletic Bilbao’s Williams during the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old winger, who had a €55 million (£48m/$63m) release clause, was a top target for the Catalan giants but the move didn’t materialise.

• Getty Images

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Despite the transfer falling through, intense speculation and fan reactions were enough to leave an impact on Raphinha, who has been a key figure for Barcelona this season. The Brazilian voiced his displeasure with a segment of the club’s fanbase after coming across a social media post that featured a fan-made jersey with Williams’ name and his own squad number on it.

  WHAT RAPHINHA SAID

  Raphinha told reporters: “Yes, I saw a picture in social media with someone printing a Barca shirt with Nico Williams and my number at the back. I left a comment in that post because I think it was disrespectful.

  “People need to keep their respect to the players from the club who try to do their best for the shirt. It did not sit right with me and the work I do here. But in the end people can do whatever they want.”

  DID YOU KNOW?

  Raphinha downplayed the notion that the incident had an effect on his desire to excel, noting that his commitment to the club is rooted in a long-term perspective.

  “This wasn’t a special motivation for me to be honest,” he added. “I think my desire to perform at my best also arrives after knowing the contract years I have left with the club. If before I was working at 100 per cent, now I’m at 200 percent.”
• Getty Images

  WHAT NEXT FOR RAPHINHA?

  Raphinha has already racked up six goals and eight assists in 12 appearances across all competitions this season for Barcelona and will be looking to continue his impressive run of form when they host Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday.