The classy right-back reiterated that his on-field discipline has improved after his daughter’s birth and that has eventually translated into better performances this season.
Although rated as one of the best full-backs Manchester United have ever acquired, Rafael regularly failed to hold his position in the line-up after suffering from frequent mood swings.
Perhaps the most infamous of them all was in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich in which the player silenced Franck Ribery in the opening 45 minutes.
The French winger was one of the world’s best players at the time and reducing him to minimal damage was indeed an achievement for Rafael. However, as the second half started, the Brazilian was eventually sent off and the Red Devils lost the game with Ribery
providing the all important assist for the final goal.
With Sir http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Phil-Jones-c29903 struggling to maintain their role in the team, Rafael was handed a chance to impress and took that with both hands.
He has since then become a first-choice on the right and Sir Alex has gone to compare his abilities to United legend http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/England-c749 International’s influence at the helm.
According to the player himself, this is down to him becoming a father this year, which in turn helped him improve his disciplinary record.
“It’s been a great year for me. I feel like I have grown up a lot and that I am maturing. My daughter was born this year, which has helped me a lot, too. And on the pitch, I have been able to play a lot of games. So I’ve had a lot of good moments, not just
in football but in life this year.”
“Playing games week in, week out helps you feel more comfortable and confident on the pitch and I’m pleased I’ve been able to do that this season. I feel more experienced and like I am growing as a player and a person,” Rafael was quoted as saying while
speaking to reporters.
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