FC Barcelona won 3-1 against Atlético Madrid on Tuesday night in La Liga, but it was Diego Simeone who made the most notable statement after the match. Long-time admirer of Raphinha, who he describes as decisive, hardworking, and exemplary in attitude, the Atlético coach praised the Brazilian once again. In an interview with Movistar+, Simeone expressed his confusion over how the Barça player didn’t win the Ballon d’Or, stating, “Raphinha plays every game. He scores goals, he presses… I don’t understand how he hasn’t won the Ballon d’Or.”
The 55-year-old Argentine coach made it clear which player he ranks at the top. For the 2025 season, the award went to another former Barcelona player, Ousmane Dembélé, while Raphinha finished fifth, trailing behind Lamine Yamal, Vitinha, and Mohamed Salah. Simeone appears to challenge this ranking, convinced that the Brazilian winger deserves more recognition for his contributions and dedication. Notably, the former Stade Rennais player scored 34 goals and provided 22 assists last season.
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