The Brazilian scored twice at the Spotify Camp Nou as Barcelona secured an important Champions League result, with Lamine Yamal also finding the net. But the result was secondary for the forward, who was visibly affected by news of the Tenerife striker's death.
Speaking to Movistar after being named player of the match, Raphinha immediately turned his attention to De Miguel and his family.
“Today I don't want to talk about football. I want to dedicate the victory to the fans, but above all send strength to the family of Jesús de Miguel. May he rest in peace,” he said.
The Barcelona captain explained that the news had been difficult to process, particularly for players who understand the risks and demands of the sport.
“This could happen to anyone. It was very hard when we saw the news,” he said. “It's complicated. You go out to play a match and something like this could happen to you too.”
Raphinha had been one of the decisive figures in Barcelona's victory, scoring twice after Yamal had opened the scoring in the seventh minute. His first goal came in the second half, before he added another to complete the 3-0 result.
Despite his contribution, he did not want to analyse the performance or discuss his own display.
“I don't have anything more to say. I want to leave it there, with these words for Jesús and his family,” he said.
The tragedy had also affected the atmosphere around the match. A minute's silence was observed before kick-off, while the Champions League anthem was not played as a mark of respect.
Raphinha's response reflected the mood across the Barcelona dressing room, with the players joining the wider football community in sending condolences to De Miguel's family and Tenerife.
For the Brazilian, the evening's result and personal achievement were not the story. His priority was to express support for those mourning the loss of a fellow footballer.