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Raphinha’s cousin has publicly criticised a former Brazil World Cup winner for spreading unverified rumours regarding the Barcelona winger’s alleged financial and family troubles, along with a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

Members of Raphinha’s family have firmly denied statements made by ex-Brazil international Vampeta, who insinuated that the Barcelona attacker was facing personal and monetary difficulties. The retired midfielder suggested that a transfer to Al-Hilal might help the player resolve those supposed issues. However, Raphinha’s cousin has now accused him of fabricating these claims.

Raphinha’s family dismisses the allegations

Vampeta, part of Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning squad, courted controversy when he alleged that Raphinha was dealing with serious family and financial problems. He also hinted that these challenges were influencing the possibility of a move to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal. Speaking on the “Red Cast” podcast, Vampeta claimed that the Barcelona forward believed a transfer could improve his circumstances.

Vampeta’s claims and the family’s reaction

The former midfielder stated that the details had reached him through contacts close to the club, though he admitted the information was essentially gossip he had overheard during the Club World Cup. He said, “Raphinha is going through a serious family problem, in addition to financial difficulties. He’s praying to see if he can go to Al-Hilal, he’s dealing with this situation.”

He added, “It’s a family matter. The information came to me from people linked with Barcelona. He believes that signing for Al-Hilal will help him turn things around.”

These comments prompted a swift and firm response from Raphinha’s family. According to reports, his cousin Igor Padilha quickly addressed the issue after a clip of Vampeta’s interview spread online. Directly calling out the retired player, Padilha wrote, “You’ll have to explain these lies, my friend.”

Transfer talk met with strong denial

The exchange has intensified speculation about Raphinha’s future, with renewed links to Saudi Arabian clubs. Nonetheless, Vampeta’s claims have been categorically dismissed by the player’s relatives. Since joining Barcelona in 2022, Raphinha has often expressed satisfaction with his life in Catalonia. At present, there is no evidence from the player’s camp to support suggestions of any personal or financial crisis, with his family moving quickly to refute the story.

Focus shifts to recovery

Raphinha’s current focus remains on regaining full fitness following a muscular injury he sustained during Barcelona’s 3-0 victory over Haiti. Despite initial fears, reports indicate that the winger will not be excluded from Carlo Ancelotti’s plans. However, the Brazilian international is expected to miss the Selecao’s final group stage fixture against Scotland while he continues his recovery.