The international break is almost over. For Leeds United, it’s a return to their regular duties of this season – trying to win promotion from the Championship.
There’s nothing left between Leeds United and the end of the season now. It’s just eight games, uninterrupted, and it could well be Daniel Farke’s last eight games in charge if he fails to guide the Whites out of the Championship at a second time of asking.
Last time out, Leeds United drew 2-2 against QPR. The Whites have won just one of their last four in the league despite beating Sheffield United 3-1 and Sunderland 2-1 in the games before, having allowed Sheffield United to ow draw level on points whilst Burnley in 3rd remain three points behind.
This month’s international break came at a good time for Leeds then. And there’s been plenty of Leeds United players on international duty with the likes of Joe Rodon and Dan James shining for Wales, whilst Ao Tanaka has been away with Japan and Junior Firpo with Dominican Republic.
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Former Leeds United star Raphinha involved in skirmish after Argentina 4-1 Brazil
A former Leeds United player who’s been playing on the big stage this month is Raphinha. The former Whites star, now at Barcelona, is a key player for Brazil, but his country were thumped 4-1 by neighbours Argentina on Wednesday and the 28-year-old Raphinha was involved in something of a skirmish.
Before the game, Raphinha predicted that Brazil would ‘thrash’ Argentina. Then after full-time when Raphinha was leaving the pitch, he was involved in some pushing and shoving with the Argentina players: some of whom seemed to try and console the attacker who was clearly having none of it.
Speaking to Fox Deportes after the game, Argentine boss Lionel Scaloni spoke out on Raphinha. He explained how he forgives the former Leeds star, seemingly for both his pre-match prediction and his full-time antics, saying: “I forgive Raphinha because I know he didn’t do it on purpose. He’s defending his national team, his team… I forgive him because I’m sure he didn’t mean to hurt anyone.”
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Raphinha’s stats for Barcelona and Brazil in 2024/25
Since Barcelona signed Raphinha in a £55million deal from Leeds United back in 2022, the Brazilian has gone from strength to strength on both the club and international stage.
There’s now even talk of Raphinha winning a Ballon d’Or one day, and it’d make sense given his prolific form this season with 27 goals and 20 assists in 42 games in all competitions for Barcelona, as well as four goals for Brazil, with one in their recent 2-1 win over Colombia.
Passionate as ever, Raphinha will be forgiven for getting somewhat upset after the defeat against Argentina. He remains a world class player and one who’s only getting better every season.
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