Leeds United could be ‘haunted’ by ‘bizarre’ Marcelo Bielsa decision – Phillips
Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa may be made to rue his decision to withdraw Raphinha at half time against Everton, according to Kevin Phillips.
The ex-Sunderland and England striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted it was “a big statement” to bring off Raphinha, 25, when the Whites were losing.
Raphinha was replaced by Tyler Roberts at half time of Leeds United’s 3-0 loss at Goodison Park on Saturday.
As quoted by Leeds Live after the defeat (12 February), Bielsa revealed the substitution was made for tactical reasons.
The decision came as a shock with Raphinha widely regarded as the best attacking player at Elland Road.
The Brazil international is Leeds’ top scorer this season with eight goals.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his assessment of the substitution, Phillips said: “It’s a big statement.
“We all know that Bielsa is his own man. He will do what he feels is right.
“No player is bigger than the club but sometimes bold decisions like that can come back to haunt you. Let’s hope this one doesn’t.
“To hear it’s a tactical switch is strange. No matter what tactics you use, you don’t take off your best and most creative player when you are losing a match.
“It’s bizarre in my eyes. Maybe there’s a bit more to it than we know. A very strange decision but it is Bielsa’s decision. He might be made to rue it further down the line.”
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