Raphinha has starred since leaving Leeds United, to join Barcelona. Albeit not on top of his game all of the time, he has made a good start to life in Spain – but a love for Leeds clearly remains in the Brazilian.
After two years at Leeds, Raphinha left Elland Road for a fee that is expected to eventually cost Barca a fee of £50m. In his first season, he struggled to get going but the Brazil winger ended on a strong note.
He played 50 games in both league and cup, having a hand in 22 goals – scoring 10, creating 12 more. This season, he has made a similarly solid start, despite a red card in Barcelona’s first league game.
Seven outings, five involvements – two goals, three assists. He is getting better with every week he is at the Nou Camp, under Xavi’s guidance. But, there is a part of Raphinha that clearly still loves Leeds.
Off the pitch, Raphinha has got married and become a Father since his move to Spain – and his wife Taia posted a reel on Instagram. It included Raphinha peeling potatoes with a knife – wearing a Leeds hoodie.
Raphinha shows Leeds love remains as wife posts on Instagram
Arguably the best player to play for Leeds in the last 20 years. A man that was quite capable of anything, but also willing to put the graft in and earn the admiration of Leeds fans. A Victor Orta gem, also a rarity.
It is unsurprising to see Raphinha go to Barcelona and take little time to adapt – especially, with so much going on off the pitch, too. Who knows, perhaps one day we will see the Brazilian back on these shores.
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