Raphinha’s camp hits back at former World Cup winner’s claims: ‘You’ll have to explain these lies’

Comments made by former Brazil international and World Cup winner Vampeta regarding Raphinha’s personal life have sparked an immediate response from those close to the Barcelona winger, as per SPORT.

Speaking on the Red Cast podcast, Vampeta claimed that the Brazilian international was dealing with family and financial problems, suggesting that these issues could influence his future and potentially push him towards a move to Saudi Arabia.

“Raphinha is facing serious family and financial problems. He’s praying he can join Al Hilal; he’s having a really tough time,” Vampeta said.

The former midfielder went on to explain that it is “a family problem” and that “he is counting on joining Al Hilal to turn things around.”

Vampeta made bizarre claims about Raphinha’s personal life. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Raphinha’s camp hits back

The remarks made by Vampeta quickly gained traction in Brazil, but they have now been firmly denied by members of Raphinha’s inner circle.

The response came from Igor Padilha, Raphinha’s cousin, who publicly rejected Vampeta’s version of events through social media.

Addressing the former midfielder directly, Padilha wrote: “You’ll have to explain these lies, my friend.”

His message categorically dismissed any suggestion that the Barcelona winger is experiencing either personal difficulties or financial troubles, making it clear that those close to the player reject the claims entirely.

Saudi Interest Remains Genuine

Despite the controversy, Al-Hilal continue to monitor Raphinha’s situation closely.

The Saudi Arabian club have made the Brazilian one of their priority targets for the current transfer window and have already made initial contacts with people around the player as part of their search for another marquee attacking signing.

However, there is no indication that any off-field issues are influencing the player’s thinking.

World Cup and recovery come first

Focused on recovering from his injury. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Raphinha himself is not expected to make any decisions regarding his future until after the World Cup.

His immediate focus remains on recovering from the muscle injury he suffered against Haiti and helping Brazil in the tournament if he is able to return.

The Brazilian Football Confederation has confirmed the injury and placed the Barcelona forward on an intensive recovery programme.

For now, speculation surrounding his personal life has been met with a clear message from his family: the stories circulating in Brazil are false, and those responsible for spreading them will have to answer for them.