Marcelo Bielsa claims that even his friends rave about how good 24-year-old Leeds player is

Add as preferred source on Google

Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has suggested that even his friends have raved about Raphinha at his latest press conference, which was covered by Leeds Live.

Raphinha making a splash

The Brazilian has made a huge impact at Leeds since arriving last season.

Leeds spent a considerable amount to bring him to Elland Road, but their investment has proved very shrewed.

Raphinha’s value has now sky-rocketed – although Leeds won’t be wanting to sell the winger any time soon.

And when asked why Raphinha has adjusted to English football so well, Bielsa suggested it is because he has such a rare combination of skills.

He said: “A very potent player, very difficult to triumph in the Premier League without that potency. Explosiveness and speed. Quick physical responses. Sustains the effort without any problems. Very few players with the talent he has in his feet.

“If I were with my friends, they would say so many words to say how good he is.”

First goal of the season

Raphinha’s brilliance was on full display last weekend, as Leeds picked up a 2-2 draw with Everton.

The 24-year-old curled home a shot from the edge of the box to get his goalscoring account opened for the campaign.

Raphinha’s form has already seen him linked with moves to the likes of Liverpool, but he said that he is delighted to be at Elland Road and loving life at the Yorkshire club currently just yesterday (Players Tribune).

It is easy to see why too.

Raphinha is adored by the Leeds crowd, and is starting to be looked to as a real talisman for Bielsa’s side.

Leeds are next in action when they take on Burnley at Turf Moor on Sunday.