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Barcelona winger Raphinha has shared insights into his mentoring relationship with young prodigy Lamine Yamal, explaining that he doesn’t hesitate to step in when the teenager needs guidance. The Brazilian, who has emerged as a senior leader at Camp Nou, likened the 18-year-old to a younger brother while discussing their strong connection both on and off the field.

Brotherhood beyond football

The bond between Raphinha and Yamal has been one of the standout features of Barcelona’s campaign, with their joint goal celebrations often capturing fans’ attention online. According to Raphinha, their understanding goes far deeper than tactical communication — it’s rooted in genuine friendship and mutual respect.

“He’s 11 years younger than me. As for our celebration, we came across it online and decided to try it out. It worked quite well,” Raphinha told TNT Sports. “It doesn’t carry any profound symbolic meaning; it’s more about our brotherly bond. I genuinely see him as my younger brother. In fact, he’s younger than my own younger brother, which is why I treat him like one. I just try to give him the best advice I can.”

Guiding the rising star

While acknowledging Yamal’s extraordinary natural ability, Raphinha also stressed the importance of discipline and focus. The Brazilian revealed that senior members of the Barcelona squad make sure to keep the teenager grounded when needed.

“I also try to share some of my life experience with him. Obviously, when it comes to his individual skills and natural quality, that’s not something I can teach — those are innate. But I do try to pass on bits of my experience,” he explained.

“He’s a great kid — always attentive, always seeking advice. And even when he does something a bit silly, we call him out for it and he listens. He’s really humble, and despite the 11-year age difference, we have a fantastic relationship.”

Hoping for a Brazil vs Spain World Cup showdown

Turning his attention to international football, Raphinha revealed that he and Yamal have already talked about the exciting prospect of facing each other at the World Cup. The idea of a Brazil versus Spain final is one that both players would relish.

“Neymar and Lamine Yamal have already said they’d love to see a Brazil v Spain final at the World Cup. I’d love that too,” the 29-year-old said. “It would be amazing to play such a match, regardless of who’s on the other side — even if it’s Lamine. We’ve got plenty of top-quality players ourselves. It would be a spectacular final, one for the fans to remember.”

‘I feel more responsibility now’

Now considered one of the senior figures for both Barcelona and the Brazilian national team, Raphinha takes pride in his leadership role as Brazil aim to capture their sixth world title. Reflecting on his childhood memories of celebrations in Brazil, he spoke emotionally about wanting to recreate that joy for his community.

“I remember that after the World Cup final, I went out to play football on the streets. The neighbourhood was full of people celebrating, having barbecues, and just enjoying themselves. Everywhere you looked, there was happiness and football. It was a day of pure joy. If I win the World Cup, I’ll be back home in a heartbeat,” he shared. “I feel I’ve matured a lot since my first World Cup with Brazil. I carry more responsibility now than I did back then, and I want to use that to help bring glory back to the country.”