Raphinha’s Bizarre Admission: A Glimpse into His Mindset Before His Final Leeds United Match
Raphinha, the Brazilian winger who captivated Leeds United fans with his flair and tenacity, recently made a peculiar admission about his actions leading up to his final game for the club in May 2022. As Leeds fought for Premier League survival, the 2-1 victory over Brentford on the last day of the 2021/22 season secured their top-flight status, with Raphinha’s contributions proving pivotal. However, his revelation about his pre-match ritual offers a fascinating insight into the mindset of a player under immense pressure.
In a candid interview, Raphinha disclosed that before the crucial Brentford clash, he engaged in an unusual superstitious act: he crawled on his knees in a private moment of reflection and prayer, seeking divine intervention for Leeds’ survival. “It was a moment of desperation and faith,” he reportedly said, describing how he felt the weight of the club’s expectations. This bizarre ritual, rooted in his Brazilian heritage where such acts are sometimes tied to spiritual devotion, underscores the emotional intensity of that relegation battle. Raphinha’s admission reveals a deeply personal side, contrasting with his on-pitch persona as a confident, electrifying winger.
Raphinha’s time at Leeds was transformative. Signed from Rennes for £17 million in 2020, he quickly became a fan favorite under Marcelo Bielsa, contributing 17 goals and 12 assists in 67 appearances. His work rate, combined with dazzling dribbles, made him indispensable. In that final Brentford game, he scored the opener from a penalty, setting the tone for Leeds’ great escape. Yet, his admission about crawling in prayer highlights the psychological toll of the relegation scrap. Leeds were teetering on the edge, and Raphinha, aware of transfer rumors linking him to Barcelona, knew his performance could define his legacy at Elland Road.
The revelation also sparked intrigue among fans and pundits. Social media buzzed with reactions, some praising his vulnerability, others marveling at the lengths he went to mentally prepare. “It shows how much Leeds meant to him,” one fan posted on X, reflecting the sentiment that Raphinha’s commitment transcended the pitch. His actions align with stories of athletes turning to rituals for focus—think of tennis players with lucky charms or footballers with specific pre-game routines. For Raphinha, this was more than superstition; it was a plea for strength in a make-or-break moment.
Since joining Barcelona for £55 million, Raphinha’s career has soared. Under Hansi Flick, he’s emerged as a Ballon d’Or contender, amassing over 50 goal contributions in the 2024/25 season. Yet, his Leeds connection remains strong. He’s spoken fondly of Bielsa’s influence and even reacted to Leeds’ 2025 Premier League promotion with a heartfelt Instagram comment. His bizarre pre-Brentford ritual, though, stands out as a testament to his emotional investment in Leeds’ survival.
Raphinha’s admission offers a window into the human side of football. Beyond the glamour, players grapple with pressure and uncertainty, sometimes resorting to extraordinary measures. For Leeds fans, it’s a reminder of Raphinha’s all-in mentality, cementing his status as a modern Elland Road legend.
