Pundit Paul Robinson has claimed that Raphinha may be causing unrest in the changing room after the speculation of a transfer away from Elland Road.
Raphinha has been a standout performer for Leeds United this season, as he has scored nine goals and registered three assists in 28 Premier League games. His performances haven’t been able to save Leeds this season as they currently find themselves in a relegation battle, and they currently sit just two places above the drop zone.
The Brazilian winger has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road, with clubs that play in European competitions such as Bayern Munich and Manchester City showing interest.
With the interest from other clubs for Raphinha’s signature, Robinson spoke to MOT Leeds News and claimed that the winger may believe that he is better than Leeds.
“Raphinha is a top-class player and when he performs, he’s one of the best there is, but after the last season that he’s had, there may be a little unrest in the dressing room and maybe he thinks, towards the end, that he’s better than Leeds. I wouldn’t stand in the way of a deal to let him go at all,” Robinson said.
TIF Thoughts on Paul Robinson’s comments…
Raphinha has had a successful season on a personal level for Leeds, especially in the first half of the season. Overall in the Premier League, he averages 2.6 shots per game, has created nine big chances for his side and makes 2.1 key passes per game, as per SofaScore.
However, in recent times his form has dropped, and he has failed to score in his last six Premier League games for Leeds. And with the speculation surrounding a move away from Elland Road, his mind may be elsewhere.
If Leeds want to remain in the top flight, Raphinha may be key for them as he can single-handedly produce some magic to keep them in the division. And then if a so-called ‘bigger club’ comes in for him in the summer, he can move away and progress in his career.