Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone expressed his surprise that Rafinha hasn’t won the 2025 Ballon d’Or, pointing out that the Barcelona star possesses incredible, almost superhuman, potential.
Lucho’s comments came after his team’s 2-1 defeat at the Camp Nou against Barcelona, a match in which Rafinha scored the Catalan club’s first goal.
After the match, Simeone said of Rafinha, “I really don’t understand how Rafinha hasn’t won the Ballon d’Or.”
He added, “He’s a fantastic player. He can play anywhere: as a winger, midfielder, striker, or even right-back.”
He concluded, “He can press, run, create chances, and of course, score. I love Rafinha.”
Rafinha had a phenomenal season last year, contributing to 60 goals – 34 goals and 26 assists – in 57 appearances for Barcelona. Despite this impressive performance, he wasn’t voted the top scorer for the Ballon d’Or by any journalist.
Rafinha finished fifth in the final Ballon d’Or rankings for 2025.
This season, the Brazilian has been plagued by injuries, but Barcelona’s results have improved since his return. He has contributed to seven goals (four goals and three assists) in 11 appearances across all competitions so far.
