Phil Hay relays Leeds-Raphinha update as mess drags on

Leeds United are currently without Raphinha for their Premier League clash against Liverpool on Sunday.

After missing international duty with Brazil due to COVID-19 rules, FIFA had been urged by the South American country to impose a five-day ban - something they later did.

Richard Masters has written to clubs and ensured that things could still change and their players could yet be available [Mike Keegan].

Phil Hay has reacted to the ongoing saga and suggested that if it was Raphinha's choice to stay at home, what power do FIFA have?

The Athletic journalist shared his verdict on his personal Twitter account yesterday, and it makes perfect sense.

"Very much looking like FIFA will try and enforce a ban on Raphinha for not travelling to Brazil," he wrote. "Would affect Liverpool (Alisson etc) this weekend too. What a mess.

"Also, if, as Radrizzani said, the decision not to go to Brazil was ultimately Raphinha’s, what power do FIFA have?"

Ongoing.

Things could change very quickly between now and Sunday, it looks as though there are many moving parts in this saga.

It has been a complete mess from start to finish, why should players be punished for not going on international duty during this break given the COVID-19 rulings?

Health officials stormed the field during Brazil's clash with Argentina to demand those from the Premier League were sent home anyway, so that would have only happened to Raphinha.

This appears to be a desperate attempt to make sure the Brazilians get their players for the October and November breaks, but it won't help their relationships with English clubs one little bit.

It should be the players' choice, and Raphinha said no, that should be final.

In other Leeds United news, 'You could see...' - Ian Wright questions Whites star live on ITV after footage emerges