Raphinha has always been known for his honesty when speaking to the media. Unlike many footballers who choose their words carefully, Raphinha speaks with the same intensity as he plays—openly, directly, and without hesitation.

In a nearly hour-long interview with Brazilian sports journalist Isabella Palhari, he discussed his personal and professional life, revealing some intriguing details. For Barcelona fans, the most significant part of his interview was his blunt criticism of Xavi Hernandez, who coached him during his first two seasons at Camp Nou.

Raphinha said: “I felt neither he nor his coaching staff trusted me. When there was no one else available, I played the full 90 minutes. I gave everything, fought hard, but as soon as another option appeared, I was immediately benched. Sometimes I’d do everything right in 60 minutes, yet I’d still be substituted. That’s why I got angry when subbed off.”

He also referenced his famous angry reaction on the bench: “There’s a viral clip of me getting furious. It was against Manchester United—I scored, assisted, and still got substituted. The game was 2-2, and I had just created a clear chance. I was in top form, playing freely, yet I was the first to be taken off. I couldn’t believe it.”

He added that his relationship with Xavi had reached a breaking point: “I tried to fix it. I spoke with him multiple times, but none of those conversations made a difference. He had his own way of thinking.”

Raphinha also admitted he was close to leaving Barcelona last summer. He even seriously considered a move to Saudi Arabia and contacted Neymar for advice. However, his wife Natalia was the main reason he changed his mind.

The Brazilian star said: “In a deep conversation with her, I said: ‘I think this decision is best for both of us. I’ve achieved my dream, but I can’t take certain things anymore.’ But she replied: ‘Do you think after leaving and getting the money they promised, you’ll still have the motivation to train and win? The spark in your eyes is gone. You know what you want, and it’s not there.’”

Raphinha continued: “I told her: ‘I have great potential. If the new coach is fair, I’ll convince him in a week.’ And honestly, it took less than a week for Hansi Flick to accept me. He values all players—those who play and those who don’t. When Vitor Roque left, he spoke with the club to assess his situation. I even talked to him myself.”