Zé Rafael

In the twilight of his career, Zé Rafael remains a linchpin in Santos' midfield, showcasing a blend of tenacity and intelligence that's the hallmark of a seasoned professional. His style of play is characterised by an exceptional ability to recover possession, a trait complemented by his impressive ball retention skills. He's not just a destroyer, though; his progressive passing is a testament to his vision, consistently threading the ball forward with precision. However, his creativity might not be his strongest suit, as evidenced by his limited chance creation. Defensively, he's a stalwart in one-on-one scenarios, rarely letting opponents breeze past him. Yet, when it comes to defending deeper in the penalty area, he doesn't quite match his excellence further up the pitch. In essence, this scout report reveals a player who balances his defensive might with an eye for a forward pass, though his attacking contributions are more subtle than spectacular.