Heartbreak at the Ballon d'Or: Raphinha's Emotional Reaction Sparks Debate

Brazilian finishes fifth as Yamal claims Kopa Trophy and Lewandowski, Pedri join top 20

Heartbreak at the Ballon d'Or: Raphinha's Emotional Reaction Sparks Debate

In emotional moment at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Barcelona forward Raphinha struggled to hold back tears after finishing 5th in the rankings.

Despite outstanding season, he narrowly missed podium finish placing behind names like Ousmane Dembele & Lamine Yamal.

Emotional Raphinha moment

While the spotlight was on Lamine Yamal who collected the Kopa Trophy as best young player, Raphinha stood quietly in the background, visibly moved.

Outstanding season overlooked?

Raphinha delivered 34 goal & 25 assist last season guiding Barca to historic domestic treble and Champions league semifinal.

His numbers even matched Cristiano Ronaldo's record for goal contributions in single UCL campaign fueling debate about Ballon d’Or voting criteria.

💔 pic.twitter.com/sGhh4rVRK0

— FCB World (@forcabarca_ar) September 23, 2025

Barcelona's strong presence

For the 1st time in years, 4 Barcelona player finished inside the Ballon d’Or top 20:

• Lamine Yamal - 2nd (up from 8th in 2024)
• Raphinha - 5th (first ever nomination)
• Pedri - 11th (best season of his career)
• Robert Lewandowski - 17th (42 goals at age 36)

Relive a special night in Paris ✨🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/mBWrQPb5NV

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 23, 2025

Future Ballon d’Or hopes

Barcelona's resurgence under Hansi Flick's restored their presence on the world stage.

If the Catalans extend their dominance and finally end their Champions league drought, the 2026 Ballon d’Or could very well belong to Blaugrana star.