Rafael sees his return to Botafogo as ‘very special’ and says: ‘I’ve tried to give a lot of energy and desire since I arrived here, technique I’m sure I have’

On July 2, 2023, the Botafogo beat Vasco 1-0 at the Nilton Santos Stadium, but suffered a serious injury Rafael on the knee. Almost nine months later, the full-back was reborn. He returned to play and assisted in the 4-0 victory over Boavista, this Wednesday, in Saquarema, in the first leg of the Rio-2024 Cup final.

– It was very special. I want to thank God, my family who supported me, everyone at the club, especially the psychologist Paulo (Ribeiro) and my therapist. I am really happy. I will try to help Botafogo as much as possible this year – said Rafael.

– It was very difficult (not playing). I hurt twice here, the most serious injuries of my career, I even thought about stopping, but I couldn’t stop like that. Being on the field is very special. Only me and those around me know how difficult it was. I am really happy – he added.

At Botafogo TVthe player was asked what the fans can expect from him this year.

– You can expect what I’ve tried to give since I got here, a lot of drive, a lot of desire, I’m sure I have the technique, because no one plays for 15 years out there if they don’t have that. Hopefully I’ll get on the field and help as much as possible, help Mateo (Ponte) and Damián (Suárez), I want to get in and help, that’s what I’m going to do – he completed.