Raphinha has paid tribute to “all of those responsible” for making his dreams come true in 2022. Two years at Elland Road saw the Brazilian become a Leeds United favourite under Marcelo Bielsa.
Supporters crowned Raphinha as their LeedsLive player of the season for his scintillating displays on the right flank last year. Despite staying up on the final day, the 26-year-old was a rare highlight in an otherwise disappointing campaign.
His heroics earned him a £50million move to Barcelona last summer. Since the switch, Raphinha has failed to live up to expectations at the Camp Nou.
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Two goals in 14 league games has hardly set the world alight in La Liga. Astonishingly, Raphinha has only played an entire 90 minutes once in a Barcelona shirt.
That poor form carried into the World Cup as the winger failed to register a goal or assist in Qatar. Yesterday, his woes continued as Barcelona were held 1-1 against local rivals Espanyol.
However, Raphinha insisted 2022 was still a year to remember in an emotional Instagram post. The former Leeds star even paid a cheeky nod to Whites fans for their support earlier in the year.
“It wasn't the result we wanted, but I take the opportunity to leave here my gratitude to all the fans present today,” Raphinha posted. “I thank you for this 2022 that was of a lot of learning and a lot of achievement.
“I thank all those responsible for making this year so great. I wish a great new year for everyone and that 2023 comes to bless us and bring us more love to this world.”
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