The only ex-Leeds players to finish higher than Raphinha in the Ballon d’Or
Raphinha finished fifth in the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, which took place in Paris on Monday.
The Brazilian winger’s exceptional season ensured his efforts were recognised, with him being labelled as one of the top five players in the world.
Raphinha has remained a cult-hero at Leeds despite leaving to join Barcelona back in 2022, with many supporters taking to social media to share their support for the former United player.
However, Raphinha’s fifth-place finish in the Ballon d’Or is not the highest by any player to have a connection with Leeds, with two other former players previously finishing higher in the voting for the award.
Gordon Strachan and John Charles have finished higher than Raphinha in previous Ballon d’Or rankings
Raphinha is regarded as one of Leeds’ best-ever signings, particularly in recent seasons, and the fine form he has continued to display at Barcelona further proves just how talented he is as a player.
Despite this, the 28-year-old is tied at third with Billy Bremner, who also finished fifth in 1973, when it comes to the highest positions attained in the voting for the biggest individual award available in football.
Prior to his move to Leeds in 1989, Gordon Strachan finished fourth in the Ballon d’Or in 1983, for his successful campaign at Aberdeen.
However, John Charles managed to go one better in 1959, two years after leaving Leeds, as he finished third whilst he was at Juventus, which is the best ever finish for a player to have played for the Whites.
Raphinha should have won this year’s Ballon d’Or
Whilst a fifth-place finish is still a remarkable achievement, Raphinha should have been given the award for his performances last season.
- In 64 games in all competitions, Raphinha scored 38 goals and provided 23 assists
- He also won the La Liga player of the season award
- Raphinha’s performances also inspired Barcelona to a domestic treble as they won La Liga, alongside the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup
Although the winner, Ousmane Dembele, will be popular with Leeds supporters after what he said about the Whites previously, it would have been nice to see someone who has been directly associated with Leeds pick up the award.
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