Ex-Leeds United hero Raphinha features in 2026 World Cup film with Lionel Messi and Timothée Chalamet | OneFootball

Former Leeds United winger Raphinha makes a brief appearance in Adidas' 2026 World Cup short film, Backyard Legends, alongside actor Timothée Chalamet.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, the five-minute piece follows a neighbourhood trio unbeaten for 30 years.

Chalamet seeks a team to end the run, turning to England international Jude Bellingham, Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal and United States women’s team star Trinity Rodman.

Cameos abound, with Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham and Alessandro Del Piero shown as a 1990s side that lost, while Lionel Messi and pop star Bad Bunny appear late on.

Raphinha’s role is fleeting and includes a single line, 'I believe it.' He is seen alongside Ousmane Dembélé, Liverpool star Florian Wirtz and Barcelona teammate Pedri.

Chalamet says he grew up copying those greats, loves the game and is thrilled to be part of the project, adding he calls it football, not soccer, and that he is excited for this summer’s tournament.

Raphinha is expected to be in Brazil’s squad for the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico under manager Carlo Ancelotti. The 29-year-old left Leeds for Barcelona in 2022 in a £55million move and placed fifth in last year’s Ballon d’Or.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk