BREAKING NEWS: “I initially dreamed of winning the Ballon d’Or, but after watching what he did against Madrid, I’ve already given up — there’s no way they’ll choose me over him,” says Barcelona star Raphinha, admitting he has abandoned his Ballon d’Or hopes after witnessing the incredible performance of an Arsenal player against Real Madrid. (Hint: it’s not Partey or Rice.)

BREAKING NEWS: Barcelona Star Raphinha Gives Up on Ballon d’Or Dream After Sensational Arsenal Performance

Barcelona winger Raphinha has made a stunning admission that has taken the football world by surprise. In a candid statement, the Brazilian international revealed that he has already given up on his ambitions of winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or — and the reason? A jaw-dropping performance from one Arsenal player against Real Madrid.

“I had the ambition of winning the Ballon d’Or, but after seeing what he did against Madrid, I’ve already given up. There’s no way they’ll pick me over him,” Raphinha confessed.

While the Barcelona star did not directly name the player, he made it clear that it wasn’t Thomas Partey or Declan Rice. This has sent fans into a frenzy, with many speculating that the man in question is none other than Arsenal’s in-form winger, Bukayo Saka.

Saka’s recent display against Real Madrid in a high-profile Champions League clash left football lovers and pundits stunned. With his blistering pace, pinpoint passes, and clinical finishing, the English forward dominated the pitch, leading Arsenal to a crucial victory that may have turned the tide of European football this season.

The 22-year-old has been on fire all season under Mikel Arteta, consistently delivering top-class performances both in the Premier League and on the European stage. His impact has not gone unnoticed, with fans now pushing his name into the conversation for the Ballon d’Or — a title no Arsenal player has ever won.

“He’s going to be the first player to win the Ballon d’Or under Arteta,” a fan tweeted. “What a season he’s having!”

Saka’s humility, consistency, and ability to rise in big games have made him one of the most admired young talents in the game. And if Raphinha’s words are anything to go by, even fellow professionals are starting to see him as a serious contender for football’s highest individual honor.

With the season still ongoing and Arsenal chasing glory in multiple competitions, Saka’s stock is only rising. Could this be the year Arsenal finally produces a Ballon d’Or winner? One thing is clear — the football world is watching.