Andres Clavijo: The Analyst Who Helped Discover a Ballon d’Or Favourite
From video scout to visionary – how P11 Football’s Head of Scouting played a key role in Raphinha’s rise to the top.
When Raphinha first caught the attention of the Premier League, it wasn’t through a headline-grabbing performance or a top-scouting network. Instead, it began with a video analysis, a sharp eye, and a little bit of luck — thanks to our very own Andres Clavijo, now Head of Scouting & Analyst at P11 Football. In a recent feature with Sky Sports, Clavijo opened up about the incredible series of events that led to Raphinha’s move to Leeds United in 2020 — a move that would help launch the Brazilian toward global stardom.
A Star Discovered by Chance
In 2020, Clavijo was working under Marcelo Bielsa at Leeds United, primarily focused on French football. During a routine analysis for a left-back target, he queued up footage of Nice vs. Rennes — but it wasn’t the defender who stole the show.
“Raphinha absolutely tore the Nice left-back to shreds,” Clavijo told Sky Sports. “Marcelo saw it and immediately asked, ‘Who is this player?’”
Clavijo knew the name. He knew the talent. And in that moment, a new chapter began — not just for Raphinha, but for Clavijo too.
Turning Insight Into Impact
Despite assuming Raphinha was out of Leeds’ budget, Clavijo flagged the Brazilian as a must-watch. Bielsa trusted the insight, Director of Football Victor Orta made the call, and against the odds, Raphinha joined Leeds on deadline day. It became one of the most impactful signings in recent Premier League memory — and one that cemented Clavijo’s growing reputation as a talent-spotter with rare vision.
Instant Impact in England
Raphinha’s influence at Leeds was immediate. His flair, intensity, and work rate made him a fan favourite and a key piece in Bielsa’s high-energy system. As Clavijo recalls:
“He had talent, of course. But his work ethic? Unbelievable. He was on a different level.”
In his first full Premier League season, Raphinha made more sprints than any other winger, despite missing games. He fit Bielsa’s high-octane style perfectly, showing hunger, energy, and creativity in every appearance.
From Leeds to LaLiga – and Now, Ballon d’Or Talk
Fast forward to 2025: Raphinha is now one of the standout players in world football. His performances at Barcelona this season — top scorer in the Champions League, creative lynchpin in LaLiga, and central figure in their treble pursuit — have sparked real Ballon d’Or buzz. His evolution has stunned many. But not Clavijo.
“I had no doubt he’d come good,” he says. “He just needed the platform. Once he relaxed and felt at home, he was always going to shine.”
The P11 Perspective
For us at P11 Football, this is more than just a story of talent. It’s a reminder of what great scouting, timing, and belief can achieve. We’re proud to have Andres Clavijo as part of our team; someone with an eye for identifying players not just for where they are, but for where they can go. The Raphinha story is proof of what happens when elite scouting meets opportunity, and it’s just one example of the forward-thinking approach we bring to the players and clubs we work with.