Arsenal Women coach Jonas Eidevall says he will “cherish the memories” of working with Brazilian defender Rafaelle during her 18 months at the club.
Eidevall confirmed our story from yesterday that the Brazilian will depart the club this summer. In his pre Aston Villa press conference, Eidevall said, “I still remember when she came and she came off the bench away at Manchester City last season and she went in and played a magnificent 45 minutes- what a debut!
“She has had such a high level, she has been so consistent. I am so pleased both for us, that we have had a player like her. But also pleased for her that she could show on a more global scale, what a good player she is.”
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Rafa spent five years playing in China before a loan spell at Palmeiras, prior to joining Arsenal in January 2022. Eidevall says he is glad the player has been able to show her ability to a more global audience at Arsenal.
“I think she was one of those names who didn’t have the recognition she deserved for her quality. We have been very, very happy with her, she has been very happy playing with us here as well.
“For reasons that our beyond our control she will leave, she is sad, we are sad. But I really cherish the memories we have with her and thank her for her contributions she made to the club. I hope she can have a really strong performance tomorrow and we can have a really nice sending off for her.”
Very disappointing
She will be missed. One of the most potent defensive players I have seen
Is it immigration paperwork related as this appears to suggest it is not the choice of player or club
that’s a weird avenue to assume. ‘personal reasons’ could be anything and presumably they do not want to disclose.
It is the choice of the player. She’s not unhappy at the club but Orlando is closer to home and closer to the culture and weather she grew up in.
Damn the English weather. She wouldn’t be the first Brazilian Arsenal has lost due to weather and culture.
I feel so emotional now that Jonas has reconfirmed this story😑. Here’s wishing you all the very best, Rafa♥️. You WILL BE missed.
Rafa and Lea ,are without doubt the best two defenders in the WSL ,I’m sorry to see Rafaelle go but I wish her all the best for the future !