Full Breakdown
Hansi Flick Critiques Raphinha's Omission from FIFA Best XI
12/20/2025, 10:50:53 PM
Raphinha's Stellar Season and FIFA's Decision
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has publicly criticized FIFA for excluding forward Raphinha from its 2025 Best XI, labeling the decision as “not fair” and a “joke.” Raphinha, who had a standout season, scored 34 goals and provided 26 assists across all competitions, contributing significantly to Barcelona's triumphs in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa. Despite these achievements, he was overlooked in favor of teammates Lamine Yamal and Pedri, as well as other players like Cole Palmer and Jude Bellingham.
Flick expressed his disbelief during a news conference, stating, “When I see there is no Raphinha in the side, it's unbelievable.” He emphasized Raphinha's influence, particularly in the UEFA Champions League, where he recorded 22 goal contributions, the highest in the tournament. Flick remarked, “This is really not fair to him. For me, it's a joke. I can't believe it because after the season he had, he deserved it.”
Official Statements & Responses
Flick's comments reflect a broader sentiment regarding the recognition of player contributions in football. He noted that Raphinha had more goal contributions than selected players like Ousmane Dembélé and Cole Palmer. “Raphinha was the player in this team with the greatest influence,” Flick stated, underscoring the disconnect between performance and recognition in FIFA's voting process.
In addition to discussing Raphinha, Flick confirmed that midfielder Pedri would miss the upcoming match against Villarreal due to a hamstring issue. He stated, “I am not happy about this, but it's part of football. He's injured, but I think for the next game [against Espanyol] he's ready.”
Criticism & Opposition
The exclusion of Raphinha has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with many agreeing with Flick's assessment. Critics argue that FIFA's voting process, which includes national team coaches, captains, journalists, and fans, often overlooks players who have made significant contributions to their teams. The decision has raised questions about how player performances are evaluated and recognized on a global stage.
What's Next for Barcelona
As Barcelona prepares to face Villarreal, they lead La Liga with a four-point advantage over Real Madrid. The match is crucial for maintaining their position at the top of the table. Flick will need to manage player injuries carefully, particularly with Pedri's uncertain availability for future matches, including a derby against Espanyol and the Supercopa de España.
Flick's advocacy for Raphinha's recognition may influence future discussions about player honors, especially as Barcelona continues to compete for titles. The team's performance in the upcoming fixtures will be pivotal in reinforcing the contributions of players like Raphinha and ensuring they receive the accolades they deserve.
