Luis Enrique’s appointment as new Celta Vigo boss could see Barcelona midfielder Rafinha join him on loan at Balaidos.
Former Barca B team boss Enrique gave the Brazilian his debut in La Segunda aged just 17 during the 2010-11 season and Rafinha is eager to link up with him again.
The player’s father Mazinho, a former Brazilian international who also acts as his representative, has already confirmed he wants his son to go on loan to another club next season, despite his contract stipulating he should join the first team squad at the Camp Nou.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Rafinha is understood to be keen on the idea of moving to one of his father’s former clubs – he played for them between 1996 and 1999 – as he spent his childhood in Vigo before moving to Barcelona aged 13.
As in the case of Gerard Deulofeu, La Blaugrana would like Rafinha to enjoy a season-long loan at either a Champions League or Europa League team, where he could play two games per week.
However, Enrique will almost certainly try to impose the Barcelona football philosophy at Celta and Barca may now feel Rafinha’s best interests would be best served under him.
