“Raphinha didn’t hesitate to pick his favorite Leeds player of all time.”

Raphinha Names His All-Time Favorite Leeds Player Without Hesitation

When it comes to modern football, few players manage to leave a lasting impression on a club’s fans as rapidly and resolutely as Raphinha did at Leeds United. Arriving from Rennes in the summer of 2020, the Brazilian winger brought flair, excitement, and a winning mentality to Elland Road during his brief but electrifying stint. Though his time at the Yorkshire club was relatively short-lived, Raphinha’s impact was undeniable—etched into the memories of fans through his goals, assists, and dazzling performances.

While Raphinha has since moved on to one of the biggest stages in European football with Barcelona, his bond with Leeds remains strong. He has often spoken with fondness about his time under Marcelo Bielsa and the unique atmosphere at Elland Road. The fans, the camaraderie, and the passion of English football all seemed to leave an indelible mark on the Brazilian international.

In a recent interview during a casual Q&A session with a European football outlet, Raphinha was asked to name his all-time favorite Leeds United player. Without skipping a beat, and much to the surprise of many who expected names like Lucas Radebe, Alan Smith, or even modern teammates like Kalvin Phillips, Raphinha smiled and answered emphatically: “Sam Byram.”

To many fans, especially newer ones, the mention of Sam Byram might seem like a curious choice. But for those who have followed Leeds closely over the past decade, Byram’s influence and talent are far from forgotten. Born in Essex but raised in Yorkshire, Byram came through the Leeds United academy system and quickly became a bright beacon during some of the club’s more turbulent years in the early 2010s.

Byram made his senior debut for Leeds United in August 2012 at just 18 years old, and it didn’t take long for him to become a regular fixture in the team. A versatile player primarily deployed as a right-back, Byram’s combination of defensive tenacity, intelligent movement, and attacking instincts made him one of the most exciting young talents in the Championship. In fact, during the 2012–13 season, Byram was widely regarded as one of the best young players outside of the Premier League, earning a series of accolades including the Leeds United Player of the Year.

Raphinha, who was still an emerging talent in Brazil during Byram’s rise at Leeds, admitted that he first saw highlights of Byram during a late-night football video binge on YouTube. “I remember watching clips of Championship games, and Sam Byram just kept popping up,” Raphinha said. “He was defending like a warrior, then suddenly he was up front creating chances. That style—fearless, energetic, and technical—really stuck with me.”

Raphinha went on to explain that his admiration wasn’t solely based on Byram’s technical ability. Rather, it was the circumstances under which Byram rose that truly inspired him. “Leeds wasn’t in the Premier League at that time. They were fighting for identity, fighting for promotion, fighting for respect. And there was Sam—this young player, not yet famous, giving everything for the badge. That’s what I love.”

Sam Byram’s journey at Leeds was marked by consistency and dedication, even as the club battled administrative instability, managerial changes, and fluctuating league results. Between 2012 and 2016, Byram made over 140 appearances for Leeds, scoring notable goals and endearing himself to fans with his professionalism. He eventually secured a move to the Premier League with West Ham United in January 2016, a bittersweet moment for fans who had watched him grow from a promising academy talent into a full-fledged professional.

Interestingly, Raphinha’s admiration for Byram goes beyond mere nostalgia. “I think if he had played under someone like Bielsa, Sam could’ve been one of the best full-backs in Europe,” Raphinha opined. “He had everything—speed, strength, intelligence. But football is about timing, and sometimes players miss out on those perfect moments.”

Indeed, injuries and the demands of top-flight football affected Byram’s trajectory post-Leeds. Although he struggled to find consistency at West Ham due to a series of injuries, he showed resilience by fighting back and eventually finding form with stints at Nottingham Forest and Norwich City. Through it all, Byram maintained his quiet determination—a quality Raphinha deeply respects.

The Brazilian also credited Byram’s influence as part of his subconscious football development. “I always liked to track back and defend,” Raphinha said. “A lot of wingers don’t enjoy that part, but watching players like Sam made me understand the importance of being complete. You can’t just attack; you need to be responsible, help your team, and do the dirty work too.”

For Leeds United fans, Raphinha’s words carry weight. Not only do they highlight a cross-generational appreciation among players, but they also shine a light on the often-unsung heroes of the club’s recent past. Byram may not have played during Leeds’ Premier League renaissance under Bielsa, but his contribution to the club’s continuity during trying times is undeniable. He helped keep the spirit alive, ensuring that when the likes of Raphinha arrived, there was still a strong foundation to build on.

When asked if he’s ever spoken to Sam Byram personally, Raphinha laughed. “No, never. But I’d love to one day. I think I owe him a shirt swap at least!”

In an era where footballers are frequently measured by their accolades and social media followers, Raphinha’s candid praise for a player like Sam Byram is refreshing. It underscores the depth and diversity of influence within football circles—where a young full-back grinding it out in the Championship can inspire a Brazilian superstar who would later play at the Camp Nou.

As Leeds United looks toward the future, both Raphinha and Byram serve as reminders of the club’s unique heritage: one defined not just by glory, but by grit, growth, and genuine affection from those who have worn the badge. Whether it’s in the silky dribbles of a winger or the relentless runs of a right-back, Leeds United’s story is continually written by those who give their all—on and off the pitch.

And as Raphinha made clear, sometimes the greatest inspirations come from the least expected places.