From the hospital to Champions League hero within hours: Raphinha’s wife sends emotional message

Raphinha was one of the stars of the show as Barcelona clinched their place in the 2024/25 Champions League quarterfinals thanks to a 3-1 victory over Benfica in the second leg of the round of 16. The Brazilian scored two first-half goals in Barça’s triumph, ending the day on a high having endured a rough start.

Raphinha in hospital before Benfica Champions League victory

Following the LaLiga giants’ victory, wife Natalia Rodrigues shared a touching social media post which revealed Raphinha had been in hospital with their son on the morning of the game.

On Instagram, Rodrigues uploaded a photo of the winger with poorly son Gael, along with an emotional caption: “I’m so proud of you, my love. You’ve been at the hospital with our son since early morning, yet you still managed to do your job brilliantly once again. You’re a great father and professional. We love you”.

Who is Raphinha’s wife? How many children do they have?

Raphinha and Natalia Rodrigues reportedly got together in 2021 having been friends for a number of years beforehand. They got married in December 2022 and welcomed son Gael, their only child, to the world in May 2023.

After two up-and-down seasons in Catalonia, Raphinha has become one of Barcelona’s most important players in 2024/25. Under Hansi Flick, he has scored 27 goals and provided 19 assists in 41 appearances, with his 11 goals in the Champions League making him the competition’s top scorer at present.

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