Raphinha says he didn’t entertain clubs other than Barcelona when leaving Leeds United in July 2022.
Tuesday’s edition of Sport relays comments made by the winger on his move to the Camp Nou.
Prior to leaving Leeds United for Barcelona, The Brazilian received interest from Premier League clubs including Chelsea. The 28-year-old will come up against the Blues when Barça face them in the Champions League later today.
The Brazil international spent two years at Leeds United and played under Marcelo Bielsa’s orders.
Earlier this year, the winger said he’s grateful to Bielsa for helping him fulfil his dream of playing in the Premier League with Leeds United. He was key member of the Argentine’s squad at Elland Road.
Raphinha scored 17 goals and contributed 12 assists from 67 matches for the English club. This includes 11 goals and three assists during the 2021/22 season, when he helped Leeds United avoid relegation from the Premier League.
His form for the Whites saw him attract interest from Chelsea and others. The South American says he only wanted to join Barcelona to fulfil his dream.
“Since my last match with Leeds, I knew about the possibility of wearing the Barça shirt and I knew about Chelsea’s interest,” he said.
“But I had a dream I had to fulfil, and I gave 100% to be able to wear the Barça shirt. I turned a blind eye to other teams that wanted to sign me. I had a dream, and I did everything possible to play for Barca.”
Raphinha, after overcoming initial struggles, has established himself as one of the best players at Barcelona.
