And then, hero status at Leeds.

The story of Raphinha is one of rags to riches. To understand his rise, you must understand the humble beginnings that turned him into a household name. 🧵THREAD

Growing up in a favela in Porto Alegre, he would evade trouble while playing on the streets. Receiving death threats in várzea tournaments, the stakes at the highest level don’t faze him.

Trials with Brazil's biggest clubs were unsuccessful, but an appearance at a São Paulo youth tournament impressed Deco enough for him to Rapha on as a client.

And once he got his move to Vitória Guimarães, he began demonstrating exactly what Deco saw in him

From there, the Brazilian began a European tour. First up, Sporting.

Then a year at Rennes.

After securing safety in 2022, he walked the length of the pitch on his knees. A symbolism of his sacrifice.

Left Leeds to sail into the sunset, his winding road had reached the pinnacle. Destination: Catalunya.

Life as a Culér has not been easy. But now flourishing under Flick, he's one of the most in-form players on the planet.

But adversity is nothing new for him, he has been fighting it for his whole life.

From the floodplain fields to the floodlights of the world stage. Every time he steps on the pitch, that boy with a belly full of hunger is always at hand to prove the critics wrong.

Leeds fans forming the majority of liking and favourite-ing your most liked and most favourite post in this thread 😂

An amazing footballer. Footy Porn 😂 #LUFC #RAPHINA

And still goes on holiday in his Leeds shirt .

Jogou muito

Pretty much gave everything at Leeds for 2 years even at the risk of messing up his Barcelona deal. A rare talent and a total professional. The most complete winger I have seen at our club for a long time. Loved by the fans & got the ethos of club at 19 million a bargain.