Stepping in as interim captain while FC Barcelona finalise their squad hierarchy, Raphael Dias ‘Raphinha’ welcomed the club’s new arrivals by stressing the immense pride and responsibility of wearing the Blaugrana colours.
“Wearing this shirt and defending this badge represents a massive responsibility, but it is also one of the greatest experiences of my life, and I am convinced it will be the same for them,” he declared in a speech ahead of the Trofeo Joan Gamper. FC Barcelona are set to face Egyptian giants Al-Ahly this Wednesday at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Addressing the crowd from the pitch, Raphinha turned his attention to the Catalan giants’ latest recruits — wingers Karim Adeyemi and Jesse Bisiwu, alongside Rodri — assuring them of the squad’s unwavering support as they adapt to life at the club.
“We will be entirely at their disposal, both on and off the pitch, to ensure they feel right at home here,” the Barca skipper affirmed. He also took the opportunity to salute the squad’s world champions — “your achievement will remain forever etched in the history of world football,” he told them — before sharing a poignant message for teammate Roony Bardghji.
The Swedish winger recently underwent a second operation on the anterior cruciate ligament of his right knee, a significant setback for which Raphinha offered his wishes for a “speedy recovery.”
“Roony is going through a very difficult time, both personally and professionally, and he needs all our support. He is an extraordinary person and a player of immense talent. I want him to know we are here for whatever he needs; he is part of the family and we must always look after our own,” he added emotionally.