Barcelona’s Raphinha blasts Club World Cup: “Giving up our holidays”
Although Barcelona is not participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Brazilian winger Raphinha didn’t hold back in criticizing the tournament and its impact on players’ rest periods. In a candid interview with TNT Sports, the Barcelona star expressed his frustration with how the competition is scheduled, especially during what would traditionally be a vacation period for European players.
Raphinha Speaks Out: “We Should Be on Vacation”
“Personally, speaking as a European club player, this is the time we’re supposed to be on vacation. I am on vacation, and so should they be,” Raphinha stated, pointing out the lack of rest players are now experiencing due to the newly expanded tournament.
Champions League Example: “No Time to Celebrate”
The Barcelona forward referenced players from Paris Saint-Germain, such as Marquinhos and Lucas Beraldo, as examples of how the intense schedule has taken a toll on athletes. Just 15 days after winning the UEFA Champions League, PSG were already back on the pitch to face Atlético de Madrid in the Club World Cup.
“Marquinhos and Beraldo won the Champions League and didn’t even get the chance to celebrate properly. They went straight to the national team and then into the World Cup. They haven’t stopped yet,” Raphinha said.
“They Didn’t Ask the Players Anything”
Raphinha also criticized FIFA’s lack of consultation with the players regarding the tournament schedule, emphasizing the emotional and physical toll of playing through the summer without proper rest.
“It’s very difficult for us to have to give up our vacations, because it’s our right. Everyone deserves at least three weeks or a month off. Many players at the Club World Cup won’t have that.
It’s really bad to give up your vacations to play something you’re obliged to do. At no point did they ask the players about dates or whether they even wanted to play. They just said, ‘you have to go,’” he added.
Barcelona’s 2024/25 Season Recap
Despite being out of the Club World Cup, Barcelona enjoyed a successful domestic campaign, winning:
- La Liga, finishing four points ahead of Real Madrid
- Copa del Rey
- Spanish Super Cup
Raphinha played a vital role under manager Hansi Flick, becoming a key figure in the club’s attacking system.
