Where Are They Now? Raphinha Thrives at Barcelona While Rodrigo’s Career Takes a Different Path
Most Leeds United supporters could easily update you on Raphinha’s progress at Barcelona this season, but far fewer would know the current whereabouts of Rodrigo Moreno.
Yet just three years ago, Rodrigo and Raphinha were Leeds’ standout attacking players. During his time at Elland Road, Rodrigo scored 28 goals across 97 appearances, with 15 coming in his final season. Raphinha, meanwhile, contributed directly to 29 goals in 67 matches, a run of form that eventually earned him a dream move to Barcelona in the summer of 2022 after playing a crucial role in keeping Leeds in the Premier League.
At the time, his agent, former Chelsea midfielder Deco, revealed that although Chelsea and Arsenal submitted higher financial offers, Raphinha was determined to join Barcelona, captivated by the idea of following in the footsteps of Brazilian legends like Ronaldinho, Romário, and Neymar.
Rodrigo Reveals Raphinha’s Leeds-Chelsea Transfer Story
While Raphinha has now fully hit his stride at Barcelona, Rodrigo recently shared that Leeds had actually preferred to sell the Brazilian to Chelsea. Speaking to El Mundo, Rodrigo said:
“Leeds wanted him to go to Chelsea, but he was set on creating his own Brazilian legacy at Barcelona, inspired by players like Ronaldinho, Romário, and Neymar.”
Raphinha’s persistence appears to be paying off. After two underwhelming seasons, he has exploded this campaign, helping Barcelona win the Copa del Rey with a thrilling 3-2 extra-time victory over Real Madrid.
So far this season, Raphinha has tallied an incredible 53 goals and assists in 50 appearances. Should Barcelona clinch the Champions League title, Leeds could also benefit, receiving an additional £10 million as part of the transfer deal.
Raphinha Eyes Ballon d’Or Glory as Rodrigo Fades in Qatar
Rodrigo’s journey has taken him to the Middle East after departing Leeds a year after Raphinha. Initially signing with Al-Rayyan, he is currently on loan at Al-Gharafa in Qatar, where he has managed just two goals, sharing the pitch with former teammate Joselu.
Meanwhile, Raphinha’s meteoric rise has caught global attention. Arsenal icon Thierry Henry has tipped him as the frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or, and Brazilian legend Cafu has echoed the sentiment, believing Raphinha deserves the prestigious prize.
Looking back, Raphinha’s decision to turn down Chelsea for Barcelona now seems like a masterstroke, with his career reaching extraordinary new heights.
