Marcelo Bielsa Praises Dan James, Comparing Him to Raphinha
Former Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa has named Dan James as his current favorite player from the Whites’ squad, drawing comparisons to former star Raphinha. Bielsa, who left Leeds in 2022 after a transformative tenure, recently shared his admiration for James during an interview, highlighting the Welsh winger’s dynamic qualities and growth.
Bielsa, known for his meticulous approach, coached both James and Raphinha during his time at Elland Road. Raphinha, now a key player at Barcelona, was a standout under Bielsa, dazzling fans with his flair, goal-scoring ability, and work rate. However, Bielsa believes James, who joined Leeds from Manchester United in 2021, has evolved into a player of similar impact. “Dan has that same spark Raphinha brought,” Bielsa remarked. “His speed, commitment, and ability to unsettle defenses are exceptional.”
James, 27, has been a regular for Leeds in the Championship under Daniel Farke, contributing significantly to their promotion push. His blistering pace and relentless pressing echo Raphinha’s high-energy style, though James leans more on direct runs than the Brazilian’s intricate dribbling. Bielsa noted, “Dan’s movement and bravery remind me of Raphinha’s fearlessness. He’s not afraid to take on any defender.”
During Bielsa’s reign, James struggled initially to adapt to the Argentine’s intense system, but his perseverance paid off. Now, with greater consistency, James has become a fan favorite, scoring crucial goals and providing assists in the 2024-25 season. Bielsa’s endorsement underscores James’ development into a pivotal figure for Leeds, particularly in their quest to return to the Premier League.
The comparison to Raphinha, who commanded a £55 million transfer to Barcelona, is high praise for James, whose market value has risen with his performances. While Raphinha’s creativity set him apart, James’ raw speed and tenacity make him a unique threat. Bielsa’s comments also reflect his enduring connection to Leeds, as he continues to follow the club’s progress from afar.
As Leeds aim for promotion, James’ contributions will be vital. Bielsa’s glowing praise serves as a reminder of the winger’s potential to emulate Raphinha’s legacy at Elland Road, cementing his status as one of the club’s brightest stars.
