Leeds dealt Raphinha blow ahead of Brazil vs Uruguay

Raphinha set to start vs Uruguay

Raphinha would be handed his first two appearances for Brazil during the October international break.

The most impressive came vs Venezuela. The Leeds United winger came off the bench at half-time when his side were 1-0 down and would go on to provide two assists as Brazil came from behind to eventually win 3-1.

This was of course a historic moment in Raphinha’s career and now looks set to see him earn a starting spot in Brazil’s final qualifier of the break, with it confirmed by Brazilian outlet Globo that Raphinha will take the place of Gabriel Barbosa:

“In training held this Tuesday afternoon, the coach outlined the team with Raphinha’s entry in attack, in place of Gabigol. The Leeds player was instrumental in the comeback against Venezuela and entered the second half of the duel against Colombia well”

“In training held this Tuesday afternoon, the coach outlined the team with Raphinha’s entry in attack, in place of Gabigol. The Leeds player was instrumental in the comeback against Venezuela and entered the second half of the duel against Colombia well”https://t.co/LQoyDu3u1p

— Joe Donnohue (@JoeDonnohue) October 12, 2021

Leeds blow

This is of course a positive for Raphinha ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

However, it is a big blow for Leeds United. The reason for this is that Brazil’s meeting with Uruguay takes place at 1:30 am UK time on Friday. Leeds then have a Premier League clash on Saturday at 3 pm away vs Southampton.

And with around a 12-hour flight, at minimum, needed for Raphinha to get back to Leeds from Brazil, plus he would then need to make the trip down south to St Mary’s, it seems all but confirmed that the winger will not be in any shape to start vs Southampton.

Manaus’ location tucked away in the Amazon (only Leeds, I know) also provides a bit of a problem. Connecting flight – likely to be to São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro – may even be required unless private transportation is arranged. pic.twitter.com/sWxAWDxFYk

— Joe Donnohue (@JoeDonnohue) October 12, 2021

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