Rafael

Rafael, at 35, is a seasoned defender for São Paulo, whose playing style reflects his extensive experience in Serie A. His defensive prowess is evident in his reliable 1v1 defending and effectiveness in penalty area duels, making him a formidable presence at the back. Despite his advancing years, he's demonstrated a keen sense of timing and positioning, crucial for breaking up opposition attacks. While his contributions in progressive passing show he's adept at initiating plays from the back, his game remains predominantly defensive. Unfortunately, without comprehensive player stats tailored to goalkeeping or specific defensive roles, a deeper dive into his ball recovery and retention is elusive. Nonetheless, this scout report highlights Rafael as a trusted, mature defender who brings stability and leadership to São Paulo's defence.