Barcelona winger Rafinha accepted an exclusive interview with fashion magazine GQ and talked about the topic of the Ballon d'Or.
Were you disappointed not to win the Ballon d'Or?
Yes, this is a disappointment for me personally. When you give it your all, work hard every day, and have a really good season, it's natural to expect that you can be one of the best players. While finishing fifth is an honor, I expected more. At the same time, it also taught me humility and sobriety. The Ballon d'Or is an individual honour, but football is a team sport. Looking back at everything I have achieved with Barcelona and the Brazilian national team, I realize that I have a lot to be grateful for. This motivates me to continue working hard and growing, and I hope I will have the opportunity to compete for the highest honor in the future.
Do you think you still have a chance to win the Ballon d'Or?
Of course, absolutely, football is cyclical and full of opportunities. I believe I still have many years to achieve new goals. Ranking fifth is incredible, but it also shows me that there is still room for improvement and that I can strive for a higher position. Every season is a new opportunity to show your quality, win championships and gain recognition. I see this as motivation, not pressure. I understand my potential and all the hard work I have put in to get to where I am today, and I am determined to keep going. I truly believe that the best is yet to come.