Rafael da Silva was a player who Manchester United certainly sold too soon and too cheaply.
The Brazilian was an asset at right-back, but Louis van Gaal did not agree.
Rafael was one of those players who just seemed to ‘get it’ and struck up a connection with fans with his fiery displays, even if he could be impetuous at times.
When he was good, he was brilliant, and one of his finest moments was his goal at Anfield as United beat Liverpool in 2012/13.
Rafael’s goal was included on the club’s official selection of four memorable United strikes at Anfield.
Also included was Ryan Giggs’ magnificent chip in 1993/94, David Beckham’s free-kick in 1997/98 and Juan Mata’s acrobatic volley in 2014/15.
Rafael said it was an honour to be named on the same list as the trio.
Rafael will almost certainly be looking out for how United get on at Anfield this Sunday.
United head into the game with it unclear who will start in the Brazilian’s old right-back role.
It could be one of Ashley Young, Antonio Valencia, or new boy Diogo Dalot.
Whoever gets the nod, let’s hope we see celebrations like Rafael’s on Sunday.
