Leeds United employee shares ‘massive’ Raphinha claim after new reveal
Noel Whelan has hailed departed Leeds United star Raphinha for his “massive part” in preserving the club’s Premier League status.
The former Whites striker was speaking exclusively to Football Insider after manager Jesse Marsch lifted the lid on a clause in the 25-year-old’s contract.
Leeds United confirmed on Friday (15 July) that Raphinha has completed a permanent move to Barcelona after a successful two-year spell at Elland Road.
As per Sky Sports (13 July), manager Jesse Marsch appeared to confirm the existence of a relegation release clause in the Brazillian’s contract.
He claimed the winger could have departed to the Nou Camp for a “reduced fee” if not for his goals during vital games in the back end of the 2021-22 season.
Raphinha notched 11 goals and three assists in 35 games as Leeds United survived the drop on the final day.
“He gave everything to keep Leeds United in the Premier League,” Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Even if he knew that if we went down, the fee would have been a lot more acceptable and affordable for Barcelona.
“I think he proved to everyone his commitment to Leeds United. He was a massive, pivotal part of us staying up.
“For that, I think he’ll always be welcomed by the fans and by the football club for that honesty and leaving everything out there on the field.
“It was a great pleasure to watch him, even if it was for such a small amount of time.
“He can leave now with his head held high.”
In other news, pundit issues “magnificent” claim as Leeds United race to sign Nicolas Pepe.