Rafael hopes Manchester United run can boost Brazil chances
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Rafael is confident he will have a greater chance of playing for Brazil thanks to Manchester United's surge to the Champions League final.
The 20-year-old has started exactly half of United's games in the competition so far, including the crucial first leg of their quarter-final with Chelsea.
It does appear twin brother Fabio has been earmarked for the right-back slot against Barcelona at Wembley, however, there seems certain to be a spin-off for both.
Rafael has already earned a senior call-up to the national side without managing to win his first cap in August last year.
And whilst neither he, nor his brother, are in coach Mano Menezes' preliminary 28-man squad for this summer's Copa America, it is only a matter of time before they make the breakthrough.
"The Champions League is a world competition," said Rafael, an unused substitute when United were beaten by Barcelona in Rome two years ago.
"Because we have played in it, the national team recognise me and my brother much more now.
"I was with the national team at the beginning of the season and the more I can play for United, the more chances I hope to get."
Not that Rafael believes United can expect Brazilian backing this weekend with popular defender Dani Alves in the Barca ranks.
Those competing players are joined in a common approach, namely attack.
"Every Brazilian player likes to go forward," Rafael said.
"We learn to attack as small boys. That is what we do.
"My heroes were Cafu and Roberto Carlos, who played the same way, as does Dani Alves.
"In Brazil it has always been like that."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments