Raphinha: Leeds star could agree exit ‘at any moment’ after Phil Hay latest – pundit
Frank McAvennie has been left baffled by Marcelo Bielsa’s treatment of Leeds star Raphinha.
The former West Ham hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, warned the Brazilian could ask to leave the club.
Raphinha, 25, was substituted at half-time against Everton on 12 February before being dropped to the bench for his side’s loss to Man United on Sunday (20 February).
The Athletic‘s Phil Hay reported on Monday (21 February) the winger and Bielsa held private talks in midweek so the manager could explain his decision.
The Brazilian proved his quality by scoring his side’s second as Leeds eventually lost 4-2 to Man United.
McAvennie can’t understand why Raphinha isn’t starting every game with Patrick Bamford still sidelined.
“I really don’t get it, it’s crazy to me,” McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“Raphinha is a player who can score goals in any game, with Bamford not there why would you not play him.
“He’s a game-changer. For me, even when he’s not scoring the Leeds fans are on their feet because they think something is going to happen.
“He absolutely destroyed West Ham when I watched that game. The boys didn’t know how to handle him.
“Bielsa has to sort that out as soon as possible. Why would you risk upsetting him?
“Teams want him, we know that. He could agree a move at any time, don’t annoy him.”
Raphinha has now scored nine goals this season.
He also has two league assists to his name.
In other news, pundit tips Carlos Corberan to replace Marcelo Bielsa on one condition after manager news.