Full Name: Raphael Dias Belloli
Date of Birth: 14 December 1996
Place of Birth: Porto Alegre, Brazil
Height: 1.76 m (5 ft 9 in)
Position(s): Winger
Current Club: Barcelona
Jersey Number: 11
While we know Raphinha to be the electrifying footballer he is today, many may not know that his path to stardom was forged through humble beginnings, relentless effort, and the influence of a multicultural heritage. His journey began in the challenging streets of a Brazilian favela, where his dreams seemed distant but his determination never wavered.
Here are 9 Raphinha Career Facts You May Not Know
1. He Has A Mixed Heritage via His Father and Mother
Raphinha's background is a vibrant mix of cultures. Born on December 14, 1996, in Porto Alegre, Brazil, he inherited Italian roots from his father, Rafael Belolli, and diverse Brazilian heritage from his mother. Raphinha's father, Rafael, was allegedly a member of the band Samba Tri in Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Raphinha’s cultural heritage instilled in him an appreciation for perseverance and balance. This duality of influences moulded him into a versatile footballer and shaped the poised and authentic character he embodies in his everyday life.
2. His Football Career Started at Imbituba Before Moving to AvaÃ
Raphinha's professional journey began humbly at Imbituba, a small club where his talent first gained attention. At just 18 years old, he joined Avả۪s under-20 team in 2014. Despite an early injury setback, he persevered, training independently, and eventually showcased his skills at the Copa Ṣo Paulo de Futebol J̼nior in 2016, catching the eyes of scouts.
3. His Family Had Financial Struggles
Raphinha grew up in Restinga, a favela far from Porto Alegre’s city centre. His family’s financial situation was dire; he shared a single room with his parents, younger brother, and even their pets.
The cost of travelling for football matches was often prohibitive, and at times, they resorted to asking for food to get by. Who would have thought a little boy growing up in a Brazilian favela, facing adversity, would one day be sending fans in elite European stadiums into ecstasy with his electrifying performances?
4. He Once Attended Ronaldinho's Party as A kid
One of Raphinha's most cherished childhood memories is attending Ronaldinho's birthday party at the age of seven. His father and uncle’s connections to the football superstar made this possible. Over the years, Raphinha’s admiration for Ronaldinho transformed into a friendship, with the legend providing inspiration for the youngster’s career.
5. He Has A Strong Friendship with Bruno Fernandes
Raphinha’s bond with Bruno Fernandes predates their shared time at Sporting CP. The Portuguese midfielder became a mentor and close friend, offering career advice that proved instrumental. Before Raphinha joined Leeds United in 2020, Fernandes encouraged the move, telling him his dynamic playing style would thrive in the Premier League.
6. Deco Scouted Him and Facilitated His Move to Vitória Guimarães
In 2016, Deco, the former Portuguese playmaker, discovered Raphinha during the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior. Deco was so impressed that he signed him to his agency, D20 Sports, and arranged a transfer to Vitória Guimarães in Portugal. This pivotal moment marked Raphinha's entry into European football at just 19 years old.
7. He won Vitória Guimarães' Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2017
Raphinha’s breakout season at Vitória Guimarães came in 2017 when he scored 18 goals across all competitions. After scoring his first senior goal on Saturday, 20th August 2016, in a 2-0 victory over MarÃtimo, he continued the season with electrifying performances that eventually earned him the Breakthrough Player of the Year award, cementing his reputation as one of the Primeira Liga's brightest young stars.
8. His stints at Sporting CP, Rennes, and Leeds Utd Prepared Him for Barca
After his success at Vitória, Raphinha joined Sporting CP in 2018, where he won the Taça de Portugal. A year later, he moved to Rennes for a then-record €21 million. His contributions there helped the team secure Champions League qualification.
In 2020, Raphinha took his talents to Leeds United, where he quickly became a fan favourite, netting 17 goals across two seasons. These experiences prepared him for his July 2022 transfer to Barcelona, where he signed a five-year deal and became one of the most valuable La Liga forwards today.
9. He Represents Brazil Internationally
Raphinha made his international debut for Brazil on October 7, 2021, in a World Cup qualifier against Venezuela. Coming on as a halftime substitute, he assisted two goals and won a penalty, making an immediate impact.
His first [2] international goals came in his third appearance, a brace against Uruguay. He represented Brazil in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and was later included in the squad for the 2024 Copa América, solidifying his role as a key player for the Seleção.
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