Raphinha’s Incredible Rise From Leeds to Barcelona Captain

Raphinha’s rise from Leeds United winger to Barcelona captain has been quite a journey.

The Brazilian joined Leeds in 2020 after developing through Portuguese and French football, and quickly became one of the club’s most important attacking players.

His second season at Elland Road proved particularly significant.

Leeds were fighting to stay in the Premier League on the final day of the 2021/22 campaign, and Raphinha played a major role in their survival. He scored the opening goal in the 2–1 victory over Brentford, with Jack Harrison scoring the winner that secured Leeds’ place in the Premier League. Barcelona’s official profile describes Raphinha as having played a key role in preventing Leeds’ relegation that season.

That performance was effectively the end of his Leeds chapter.

In July 2022, Raphinha completed his move to Barcelona, taking another major step in his career.

His first season in Spain ended with a LaLiga title, with the Brazilian contributing 10 goals and 12 assists.

But his biggest transformation came under Hansi Flick.

During the 2024/25 campaign, Raphinha produced 34 goals and 22 assists in 57 appearances, helping Barcelona win LaLiga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. He also finished fifth in the 2025 Ballon d'Or voting.

His importance to Barcelona has continued into the new campaign.

Flick named Raphinha as one of Barcelona’s temporary captains alongside Pedri and Eric García during pre-season, before the club finalised its squad and held its captaincy vote.

He has also started the 2026/27 season in outstanding form. Raphinha scored a hat-trick in Barcelona’s 7–2 victory over Racing Santander on Wednesday, including two penalties.

From fighting for Premier League survival with Leeds to wearing the captain’s armband at one of the biggest clubs in world football, Raphinha’s career has taken quite a turn.