Leeds Must Drop a Star: Raphinha’s Lack of Impact Revealed
Leeds United’s season has been a rollercoaster ride, with the team oscillating between impressive performances and disappointing losses. One player who has been under scrutiny lately is Raphinha, the Brazilian winger who has been a key player for the Whites. However, recent statistics have revealed that Raphinha has been having a significant impact on the team, with fewer touches than Leeds’ goalkeeper, Illan Meslier.
According to data from Whoscored, Raphinha has averaged just 22.4 touches per game in the Premier League this season, which is significantly lower than Meslier’s average of 34.6 touches per game. This is a staggering difference, and it raises questions about Raphinha’s role in the team.
While Raphinha is known for his pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability, his lack of touches suggests that he is not having the same level of influence on the game as he was last season. In fact, his touches per game have decreased by over 10% compared to the 2020-21 season.
This lack of impact is not just limited to Raphinha’s individual statistics. Leeds have struggled to create chances and score goals this season, and Raphinha’s inability to dominate games has been a major factor in this. The team has averaged just 10.4 shots per game, which is one of the lowest totals in the Premier League.
So, what can Leeds do to get Raphinha back to his best? One option is to give him a rest and allow him to recharge his batteries. Raphinha has been playing a lot of football recently, both for Leeds and the Brazilian national team, and a break could do him some good.
Another option is to change Leeds’ formation and playing style to get the best out of Raphinha. The team has been playing with a 4-2-3-1 formation for most of the season, but this has not allowed Raphinha to express himself as much as he would like. A change to a 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 formation could give Raphinha more freedom to roam and create chances.
Ultimately, Leeds need Raphinha to start performing at a higher level if they are to achieve their goals this season. The team has too much talent and potential to be stuck in the lower reaches of the table, and Raphinha is a key player who needs to start making a bigger impact.
In conclusion, Raphinha’s lack of touches compared to Meslier is a worrying trend for Leeds fans. The team needs to find a way to get the best out of their star winger, whether that is through rest, a change in formation, or a change in his role in the team. If Leeds can get Raphinha back to his best, they will be a much more formidable team and a serious threat to the top six.
