Raphinha Reaffirms He Rejected Chelsea for Barcelona Ahead of Stamford Bridge Return

Overview

• Speaking before Barcelona's Champions League visit to Chelsea, he said he pursued a long‑held dream to play for Barça and ignored other offers.
• He explained that Chelsea’s 2022 bid was real but that he never wavered once Barcelona became an option.
• Recently back from a hamstring layoff, he made a late cameo against Athletic Club and said he rushed his recovery, accepting blame for two setbacks.
• Coaches expect him to reclaim a starting role once fully fit, given his form since joining in 2022.
• He described himself as his team’s toughest critic who presses from the front, and he also said last season’s accolades undervalued his contributions.