2026 World Cup: Raphinha in debt? The crazy rumor started by a Brazilian world champion in 2002

Now a sports commentator, 2002 World Cup winner Vampeta says he heard a "rumor" behind the scenes at the World Cup, claiming that Raphinha had significant financial and family problems.

A new problem for Raphinha? Injured during Brazil's second match at the 2026 World Cup against Haiti, Raphinha could have other worries, this time off the field, according to former Brazilian footballer Vampeta.

His track record might legitimize his pronouncements, but he's also a difficult character to understand. A World Cup winner with Brazil in 2002, Vampeta claims that Raphinha, the FC Barcelona winger, is facing financial and family problems. A guest on the Red Cast podcast, the now-sports commentator indicated that he had heard "rumors" behind the scenes during last year's Club World Cup.

According to rumors, "Raphinha is facing a serious family problem, in addition to financial difficulties," and the Brazilian striker is counting on Saudi Arabia to help him out: "He hopes to join Al-Hilal, he's managing the situation as best he can," says Vampeta. The 52-year-old former footballer says he "received the information from people close to the matter in Barcelona," and that Raphinha "is convinced that his transfer to Al-Hilal will allow him to turn things around."

"You're going to have to explain yourself."

Vampeta (whose real name is André Batista Santos), formerly of PSV Eindhoven, PSG, and Inter Milan, was quickly targeted by Raphinha's family, who deny the veracity of these statements and demand an explanation. Raphinha's cousin, Igo Padilha, responded to the rumors Vampeta spread about the former Rennes player: "You're going to have to explain these lies, my friend," he told the 2002 World Cup winner.

In any case, Raphinha is continuing his recovery with the Brazilian national team's medical staff. The Seleção indicated that the striker would follow "an intensive treatment protocol," but did not give a timeframe or return date for Raphinha.