Marcelo Bielsa, Raphinha in ‘heart-warming’ moment Leeds United fans will love
In a touching moment for Leeds United fans, Marcelo Bielsa and Raphinha shared a heartfelt embrace before the Copa America quarter-final clash between Uruguay and Brazil.
In footage that emerged overnight [7 July], the pair could be seen before the match walking towards each other before hugging in a heart-warming moment.
Bielsa currently manages Uruguay, while Raphinha plays for Brazil.
Premier Sports shared footage of the “heart-felt” moment via their X account [7 July].
Raphinha has previously said that he owes all of his success to Bielsa, thanks to his demanding style at Elland Road, which pushed him to new heights [ESPN].
Reflecting on his time under Bielsa’s mentorship, Raphinha said: “He’s the coach who really shaped me from day one at Leeds.
“Bielsa always pushed me to give my absolute best, which helped me get where I am today – playing for Brazil and now at Barca,” he said. “Without his influence, none of this would’ve been possible.
“In addition to having a style of play that is always respectful of the ball, he seeks maximum performance in training and in games.
“He was an important person for me and for my career and I will always carry him with me.”
The quarter-final match itself was tense, ending in a thrilling penalty shootout that saw Uruguay edge past Brazil.
Marcelo Bielsa had a lasting impact on Raphinha at Leeds United
Amidst the competition, the embrace between Bielsa and Raphinha was a touching reminder of the impact a coach can have beyond tactics and training.
For Leeds fans, seeing Raphinha’s success is a source of pride. His time at Elland Road was marked by dazzling goals and memorable performances that endeared him to supporters.
Now, watching him shine on the international stage and at Barcelona, the supporters surely can’t help but feel a sense of fulfilment and gratitude towards Bielsa for helping mould such a talented player, who will always have a deep connection with Leeds.
But would Raphinha have made it there but for Bielsa? The evidence suggests that, for all his talent, he probably may not.
He had had a solid career before his move to Leeds. But spells at Rennes and, before that Sporting Lisbon, would not have put him on their radar.
Raphinha scored 17 goals and added 12 assists in his time in the Premier League. That amounted to a goal contribution every 2.2 matches.
And it was little surprise that Barcelona soon came calling for the Leeds United star.
In other Leeds news, an update has been shared on the future of Georginio Rutter.
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