Only a former Barcelona player, Ousmane Dembélé, can aspire to take the Ballon d'Or away from a Barça player based on last season's achievements.
Some mention Lamine Yamal, others Pedri. But, without a doubt, it was Raphinha who posted the best numbers last season.
His level was so high that not even Dembélé's extraordinary year puts him on the same level. Raphinha surpassed him in goals and assists both overall and in the Champions League.
The Brazilian has not only kept up as Barça's leader, but has also outperformed the Frenchman in almost every individual category. That, in the locker room, is being discussed more and more openly.
Better collective performance and in Champions
It's true that Dembélé can boast of having played in the Champions League final. That's the only difference, one more match and a title. The rest is the same: LaLiga, Copa, and Supercopa.
But that presence in the final isn't enough to overshadow everything else. In terms of consistency, Raphinha has been superior in the Champions League and in LaLiga.
More goals, more assists, more impact. His performance has been key for Barça to keep competitive in a very challenging year both institutionally and athletically.
While Dembélé has had isolated peaks of performance, the Brazilian has been a constant.
The most revealing fact is that, even though the Frenchman played one more match in Europe, Raphinha was more decisive. His offensive output per minute has been higher. His influence on the collective play as well.
Lamine and Pedri, far ahead
But the discussion isn't limited to Raphinha. If the goal is to assess who really shined this season, two other names stand out in particular: Lamine Yamal and Pedri.
The first, with a historic breakthrough. The second, with a brilliant end to the season and quiet leadership.
End to the debate
With the data on the table, the debate seems settled. Dembélé played a Champions League final, yes. But he hasn't been better than Raphinha.
Not in Europe nor over the full season. Barça, with young players like Lamine and leaders like Pedri, looks ahead without nostalgia for the past. Dembélé is just history.