Raphinha Acknowledges Strong Bond With English Players During Time at Leeds United
*Raphinha Reflects on Missing English Teammates Since Leaving Leeds United*
Brazilian winger Raphinha has expressed his emotional longing for the camaraderie he once shared at Leeds United, particularly highlighting how much he misses playing alongside his former English teammates. Since leaving the Premier League side in the summer of 2022 for Spanish giants FC Barcelona, the dynamic attacker has gone on to compete at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League. But despite his success in Spain, Raphinha admits that part of his heart remains in Yorkshire.
In a recent interview, the 28-year-old opened up about the lasting friendships and team spirit that defined his time at Elland Road. “I miss the energy, the banter, and the togetherness we had at Leeds,” he said. “Especially playing with the English guys — we had a strong bond that really helped us on and off the pitch. It’s not just about football, it’s about the relationships and the unity we built through the hard moments.”
During his time at Leeds United, Raphinha developed close relationships with several English players who were instrumental in the club’s performances during the 2020–21 and 2021–22 Premier League seasons.
One of the most significant connections was with Kalvin Phillips, the homegrown midfield general who served as the anchor in Leeds’ engine room. Known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and fierce tackling, Phillips was a key figure in Marcelo Bielsa’s system. Raphinha often praised Phillips for making the game easier by controlling the tempo and always being available for an outlet pass. Their combination play helped Leeds transition swiftly from defense to attack, and the Brazilian has acknowledged that Phillips’ presence allowed him more freedom to operate creatively.
Raphinha also shared a strong understanding with striker Patrick Bamford, who led the line with grit and determination. The two were frequently involved in goal-scoring sequences — Raphinha cutting in from the right to deliver inch-perfect through balls or crosses, while Bamford’s intelligent movement created space and opened up defenses. In the 2020–21 season alone, they combined for several key goals that helped Leeds finish in the top half of the table in their first season back in the Premier League after 16 years.
Another player Raphinha spoke fondly of was Luke Ayling, the adventurous right-back who often overlapped on the flanks to give him attacking support. Their partnership on the right wing allowed Raphinha to drift inside while Ayling stretched the opposition defense. “Luke was tireless,” Raphinha recalled. “He’d be bombing up and down the right all game, and we had a great rhythm when we played together.”
Although technically American-born, winger Jack Harrison — who spent much of his formative football years in England — also played a crucial role in the team’s structure and chemistry. Raphinha and Harrison operated on opposite flanks but shared a mutual appreciation for width, spacing, and fast transitions. Their ability to switch flanks and maintain balance in wide areas often left defenders scrambling.
Beyond the pitch, Raphinha noted that the dressing room atmosphere contributed significantly to his comfort and performance. “There was something real about Leeds. We were like a family — we looked out for each other,” he said. “When you have that kind of environment, it reflects in how you play. We weren’t the biggest club, but we had one of the biggest hearts.”
Raphinha’s affection for the Leeds United fanbase remains as strong as ever. “The supporters were incredible. They treated me with so much respect and love from the moment I arrived,” he said. “Even now, I get messages from Leeds fans. It shows you how powerful football can be.”
Since joining Barcelona, Raphinha has experienced both highs and challenges — from lifting trophies to facing fierce competition for a starting spot. But when asked what he misses most about his time in England, he didn’t hesitate. “It’s the people. It’s the teammates. It’s that feeling of going to war with your brothers every weekend.”
Though he is now plying his trade in one of the most storied clubs in Europe, it’s clear that the Brazilian has not forgotten his roots at Elland Road. And for the Leeds faithful, Raphinha’s heartfelt words serve as a reminder of a magical era — one filled with passion, grit, and a special group of players who gave everything for the badge.