Raphinha’s Reply to Simeone: Ballon d’Or Praises Meet Barca’s 5-0 Shock of Bilbao
8 January 2026
Raphinha reacts to Simeone's Ballon d'Or praise
Raphinha, Barcelona's Brazilian star, responded to Diego Simeone's praise after Barca's 5-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia, broadcast exclusively on the Thmanyah app, the official broadcaster of the Roshn Saudi Pro League.
Simeone had lauded the Brazilian as an amazing talent who can play anywhere—winger, midfielder, forward, or even wing-back—and he mused aloud as to why he hadn't yet won the Ballon d'Or.
Raphinha, who scored the fourth and fifth goals in the rout, replied: "Thanks for the praise... he's a world-class coach, and I respect him a lot."
The enthusiasm from the Atlético coach followed Barca's convincing display, setting up a final where they will face the winner of Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid.
Final note with a wink: if the Ballon d'Or ever shows up in a trophy cabinet, Simeone might need a bigger shelf. And remember, football is serious business, but Raphinha's smile says the goals kept coming even when the press conference did not.
