London, 23 May 2025 (dpa/MIA) - Barcelona winger Raphinha has signed a new contract with the LaLiga champions until 2028.

The 28-year-old has scored 34 goals in all competitions this season en route to helping Barca reclaim the title for only the second time since 2019 as well as lifting the Copa del Rey.

It comes a day after head coach Hansi Flick also committed to the club by signing an extension until 2027.

The Brazil international, who struggled initially at Barca after joining from Leeds in 2022, is a leading contender for the Ballon d'Or which is due to be awarded in September.

It has marked a stunning turnaround in fortunes after he was reportedly told by sporting director Deco in the summer of 2024 to look for another club.

It was his goal in the 87th minute of Barca's Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan earlier in May that put his side ahead 6-5 on aggregate and had them heading for the final in Munich, before Inter hit back to win.

He also netted twice against Real Madrid on May 11 as Barca fought back from 2-0 down to win 4-3 and move to within touching distance of the title.

MIA file photo