Marcelo Bielsa is considering to deploy Raphinha centrally
Marcelo Bielsa is considering trying Raphinha out in a more central role given Daniel James’ arrival at Leeds United, according to Phil Hay.
In his recent article for The Athletic, the reliable Leeds journalist talks about the impact of James at Elland Road.
He wrote, “The Athletic understands that Bielsa has been pondering the possibility of finding space for all of them [James, Jack Harrison, Raphinha] in his side by coaching Raphinha in the demands of a more central role.”
However, he follows it by writing that they do not plan to enforce it rashly and would look to set up a systematic plan to implement it.
We’re a little bit on the fence about this one as we’re not completely sure that the side will benefit from losing Raphinha on the wings.
There are little merits in moving him way from the position in which he’s achieved so much success.
Ideally, we would see the Brazilian continue there and get James off the bench in the final half hour to wreak havoc all over the pitch.
Given Harrison’s relatively quiet start to the new season, the Wales international could compete with him for a starting spot.
Raphinha’s arguably Leeds’ best attacking player and to take him out of his preferred position makes very little sense.
After Leeds’ win against Fulham last season, former Whites striker Jermaine Beckford labelled him “phenomenal” live on Sky Sports.
If this impacts the Whites’ performances then we may see Bielsa scrap this plan.
However, it could prove to be another masterstroke so we’re not making any judgements just yet.
It remains to be seen what the Argentine has in store, but we do not expect to see him playing centrally against Liverpool.
In other Leeds United news, Marcelo Bielsa confirms ‘Outstanding’ Leeds ace is available v Liverpool after mid-week incident