Rafael Alcantara, Rafinha, has enthused at the prospect of being able to play for Celta Vigo next season in the Primera Division.
The 20-year-old yesterday completed a season long loan move from Barcelona to reunite with former Barca B Coach Luis Enrique, return to the city where his mother lives and to play for the club that his father represented over a decade ago.
“I am not one to get particularly nervous, but I have to admit when I was arriving at Balaidos, with all the people waiting, my hair stood on end,” explained Rafinha to reporters and fans.
“This is a very emotional day, it is a dream to play for Celta in the Primera Division. It is the best place where I can be.
“I intend to help the team, to give my all and to return the ambition that they are putting in me.
“This is a team that I have always been fond of, being part of my family, and here is a Coach that I have already worked with.
“[His brother, Bayern Munich bound] Thiago is one of those that helped me in this decision. We have always been very close and I am very much excited to be here.”
The crowd that greeted Rafinha also had chants for his father, Mazinho, who spent four years of his professional career with the Galicians.
“My father is a world champion, I cannot compare with him, whilst I’m a more offensive footballer. But we both have the same willingness to work in the field.
“I usually play in central midfield but I can play in up to four different positions.”
