PLAYER PROFILE

Da Silva Rafael

Position: Defence

Height: 0'0

Weight: 0st 0lbs

Date of Birth: 1990-07-09 Petropolis, Brazil

Da Silva Rafael

Young right-back Rafael da Silva began his career with Brazilian club Fluminese. He was spotted by United's former Academy manager Les Kershaw in 2005 and signed for the club in 2008, alongside twin brother Fabio.

Rafael made his competitive debut in Manchester United's opening game of the 2008/09 Premier League season against Newcastle. His first start came in the Carling Cup against Middlesbrough in September. He also started the Champions League game against Aalborg on September 30. His first goal for the club came in the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in November.

Injuries held his progress up slightly towards the end of the season, with the more experienced John O'Shea often preferred at right-back. However, Rafael had done enough to earn a nomination for the PFA Young Player Of The Year, as well as an extension to his contract.