Brazil boss Dorival Jr has lavished praise on Raphinha and says the Barcelona star is a genuine contender for the Ballon d’Or.
The Brazilian forward was on target again in midweek, scoring the winner for 10-man Barcelona in the Champions League against Benfica.
Raphinha’s goal continues his stunning form this season, and Dorival Jr thinks he could be named the best male player on the planet.
“Raphinha is a Ballon d’Or contender,” he told a press conference after naming his latest Brazil squad.
“Raphinha faced heavy criticism during the Copa America, and now he is a Ballon d’Or candidate.