Positive sign: Leeds supporters surely pleased with what Raphinha has just posted - opinion

Raphinha has taken to Instagram to offer support to Leeds United’s U23s ahead of their Premier League 2 match with Manchester City later this month.

The Whites currently sit 11th in Division One of the Premier League 2 system, just four points above the relegation zone. City, meanwhile, are top of the table, and given Leeds’ youth side were soundly beaten 5-1 by West Ham in the Premier League Cup on Monday, they face a tough task against the Citizens.

Taking to his social media account, Raphinha showed support for the youngsters, posting a graphic with the caption: “Let’s support our boys.”

TIF Thoughts on Raphinha’s post and his Leeds future…

There has been plenty of speculation surrounding the future of the Brazil international in recent weeks and months. He has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, with his agent, Deco, said to have been in talks with the La Liga giants since February. Reports say even a big contract would not convince the winger to stay at Elland Road, with some outlets suggesting a transfer is inevitable.

Losing Raphinha would be a big blow to Jesse Marsch. The former Rennes man is Leeds’ top scorer this season with 10 goals in 29 Premier League matches, and his ability on the ball has delighted the club’s supporters. The fans will surely be desperate to keep him at the club.

As such, any small indication that he is happy in Yorkshire will come as good news. Even the use of “our” boys shows he still feels part of the Leeds community and squad, and there is no obligation for him to show support to youth players.

Of course, it could well be his social media team taking care of such posts, but that doesn’t mean Leeds fans can’t hope he remains at the club. In the short term, they need him to be