Raphinha has made his position on the Ballon d'Or clear, backing Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal to win the prestigious award despite strong competition from the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and others.
With the voting deadline approaching, the Barcelona talent remains one of the leading names in the conversation after another exceptional period for club and country.
Raphinha believes the teenager has the statistics, trophies and individual quality required to take home the prize.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Raphinha was asked directly whether Yamal was the ideal candidate for the Ballon d'Or.
The Barcelona captain did not hesitate when giving his answer, stating, "Without a doubt, yes."
Raphinha then explained why he believes his teammate stands above the other contenders, pointing to the combination of individual numbers, collective success and the qualities Yamal brings beyond statistics.
"I think winning the Ballon d'Or depends on individual statistics, team honours and the magic you bring to the pitch. Charisma and all that. Those are the most important factors, and Lamine has it all," he added.
The Brazilian also highlighted Yamal's consistency across multiple seasons rather than focusing solely on his most recent campaign.
"Lamine has spectacular statistics, not just this past season, but the one before that as well. He's made a spectacular start to this one."
Barcelona captain points to Yamal's trophies
Raphinha believes Yamal's case becomes even stronger when his individual performances are combined with his trophy haul.
The Brazilian pointed to the teenager's success with Barcelona and Spain, arguing that collective honours should be an important part of the Ballon d'Or discussion.
Raphinha said Yamal "has won two out of three titles with Barça and the World Cup with his national team."
He then stressed the youngster's importance to both sides, stating, "He's one of the most important players at Barça and for the Spanish national team. For me, there's no doubt about it: he has to win the award, no matter what," he analysed.
The Barcelona captain then acknowledged that other players and their fans will naturally have different views, but said his own position is straightforward.
"As for what others say, everyone looks out for themselves, but for me it's very clear," he added.
Raphinha then removed any suggestion that his support is simply based on being Yamal's teammate, arguing that the youngster's performances would make him a Ballon d'Or favourite regardless.
"Even if I wasn't Lamine's teammate, given what he does on the pitch, his statistics, the titles he's won… titles are very important.
He finished with an unequivocal verdict: "For me, he's the favourite; he has to win it," he concluded.