Towards the end of Marcelo Bielsa’s reign as manager, Raphinha looked disillusioned. He had been hooked at half-time against Everton, benched against Manchester United – and even held private talks with the Argentine.
The 25-year-old is being strongly linked with a move away from Elland Road this summer, whether Leeds stay up or go down. But from now until then, his form will have a pivotal say as to whether Leeds can survive.
His form dipped in Bielsa’s last few matches. In his last eight Premier League matches under the ex-Bilbao boss, Raphinha scored once and created another. He struggled at Everton, and in the 3-3 draw with Villa.
But in Marsch’s first game, Raphinha was superb – earning his side’s best rating on WhoScored with 7.05. The 3-0 defeat to Villa was an embarrassing one, but against Norwich on Sunday – he was head and shoulders above.
Is Raphinha happier at Leeds under Marsch – than under Bielsa?
Raphinha obviously got the crucial, last-minute assist for Joe Gelhardt – showing composure when many would have simply had a go at goal. He rounded Tim Krul, finding Gelhardt. He is posting more on social media.
On numerous occasions since Marsch came in, he has sent messages to fans on Instagram – something he did not do much under Bielsa. He posted a picture embracing Marsch, on Instagram after Sunday’s win [above].
Raphinha is more engaging with fans, his performances are improving and he is posting pictures alongside Marsch. He looks happier and a happy Raphinha might just be crucial to getting Leeds out of the mire come May.
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