Rafael da Silva is a fan favourite at Old Trafford and one of United’s two natural right-backs – the only one of the two who is experienced, too. However, praise from the fans and calls from the Stretford End won’t be enough to change Louis van Gaal’s mind.
Despite the fact that the Red Devils are in need of a right-back, with Antonio Valencia having filled in as a makeshift option for much longer than expected now, Rafael has been shown the exit door. The Brazilian has been extremely out-of-favour since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, harshened in part by numerous injury blows, most notably early-on in David Moyes’ first competitive match in charge of the club.
With Saidy Janko having been sold to Celtic, the only other right-back at the club is Guillermo Varela, who may not yet be ready for Champions League and Premier League starts having spent 2014/15 on loan to Real Madrid Castilla.
Manchester Evening News writer Stuart Mathieson reports that Galatasaray, Napoli and Fiorentina are among those interested in Rafael, who could yet remain in the Premier League, with two unidentified clubs supposedly interested in his services.
Rafael joined the club in January 2008, together with his twin brother Fabio. Sir Alex Ferguson intended for the pair to be United’s long-term full-backs – and they both played in Champions League finals for the club.
The news that he is to leave the club comes at a time when reports are rife that United are pushing to buy Darmian of Torino – Italy’s first-choice right-back.
Rafael is still young; he is just 24 years of age and this will certainly work in his favour. He has the time and talent to spend a period playing at the top level – it is simply unfortunate that this will not come at Old Trafford.
