Márcio Rafael Ferreira de Souza, better known as Rafinha, is a former Brazilian footballer who left an indelible mark as a versatile and triumphant right-back. Born on September 7, 1985, in Londrina, Paraná, Rafinha built a career filled with titles at European and Brazilian clubs, alongside appearances for the national team. His journey, spanning over two decades, was defined by resilience, injuries, and moments of glory, culminating in his official retirement in July 2025. Now, at 40, he dedicates himself to sports commentary, sharing his expertise with fans.
Childhood and Early Football Days
Rafinha grew up in Londrina, a city in Paraná known for its passion for sports. From a young age, he displayed talent in futsal, starting his development at seven with Grêmio Londrinense. This futsal foundation honed his ball control, agility, and game vision—qualities that would later distinguish him as an attacking right-back.
Between 1996 and 1998, he played for PSTC, followed by Junior Team until 2001. In 2001-2002, he joined Londrina’s youth setup before moving to Coritiba in 2002. At Coritiba, affectionately called “Coxa” by fans, Rafinha quickly progressed through the youth ranks, showing professional potential. His dedication and refined technique caught the eye of scouts, paving the way for his first-team debut in 2003.
Professional Beginnings at Coritiba
Rafinha’s debut for Coritiba was a turning point. At just 17, he became a key squad member. From 2003 to 2005, he played 53 matches and scored six goals—impressive figures for a right-back. His contributions were vital to Coritiba’s Paraná State Championship wins in 2003 and 2004, as well as their historic qualification for the 2004 Copa Libertadores. Rafinha stood out for his ability to support attacks, deliver precise crosses, and maintain defensive solidity, winning over the Coxa faithful.
Those years at Coritiba were crucial for his growth. He learned to handle the pressure of a major Brazilian club and gained the confidence to aim for Europe. In August 2005, Schalke 04 from Germany paid €5 million for his transfer, marking the start of a brilliant European chapter.
European Career: From Rising Star to Legend
The move to Schalke 04 was a significant leap. At 20, Rafinha adapted swiftly to the Bundesliga’s physical and tactical intensity. Over five seasons (2005-2010), he played 198 matches and scored 11 goals, becoming a mainstay. He finished as Bundesliga runner-up in 2009-10 and showed versatility, occasionally playing in midfield.
Stint at Genoa and Arrival at Bayern Munich
In 2010, Rafinha had a brief spell at Genoa in Italy, playing 37 matches and scoring two goals in one season. However, his true destiny awaited. In June 2011, Bayern Munich signed him for a three-year deal, extended until 2017. Initially a backup to Philipp Lahm, he earned prominence under Pep Guardiola, who valued attacking full-backs.
At Bayern, Rafinha reached his peak. From 2011 to 2019, he played 266 matches, scored six goals, and amassed a trove of trophies: the 2013 UEFA Champions League, 2013 Club World Cup, seven Bundesligas, three German Cups, and several Supercups. His synergy with players like Thomas Müller and Arjen Robben became iconic, earning him a place in Bayern fans’ hearts. In May 2019, he bid an emotional farewell to the Allianz Arena after an era of European dominance.
Olympiacos and Return to Brazil
In June 2019, Rafinha joined Olympiacos in Greece on a two-year deal. He played 22 matches without scoring but helped win the 2020-21 Greek Super League, receiving a medal despite his contract termination in February 2021. This brief stint added to his international experience.
Return to Brazil: Flamengo, Grêmio, and São Paulo
Rafinha returned to Brazil in 2019, signing with Flamengo, one of the country’s biggest clubs. Over two years, he played 46 matches without scoring, playing a pivotal role in the historic 2019 Copa Libertadores triumph, converting a penalty against Emelec and featuring in the final against River Plate. In 2020, he won the Carioca Championship, Recopa Sudamericana, and Brazilian Championship, contributing in the early rounds.
Challenges at Grêmio and Peak at São Paulo
In March 2021, Rafinha joined Grêmio until the season’s end, playing 43 matches and providing assists in the Copa Sudamericana. In December 2021, he signed with São Paulo for one year, later extended to 2024. There, he played 117 matches, scored a memorable goal against Palmeiras in the 2023 Copa do Brasil, and took on the captaincy. Versatile, he played as a right-back and center-back, leading São Paulo to the 2023 Copa do Brasil title (lifting the trophy as captain) and the 2024 Supercopa do Brasil.
In December 2024, after 116 matches and two titles, he left São Paulo. He returned to Coritiba for one year at 39, aiming to retire at his boyhood club. He played nine matches in the 2025 Paraná State Championship but terminated his contract in March due to disagreements with the board, after playing in a Bayern Munich legends match without permission.
Brazilian National Team: An Unfulfilled Dream
Rafinha represented Brazil at various levels. With the U-20 team in 2005, he played seven matches and scored twice. In 2008, he won bronze at the Beijing Olympics with the U-23 team, playing six matches and notably marking Lionel Messi in the final against Argentina.
With the senior team from 2008 to 2017, he played four matches without scoring. He debuted in a friendly against Sweden in 2008. Called up by Luiz Felipe Scolari in 2014 for friendlies, he withdrew from the 2015 World Cup qualifiers but returned under Tite in 2017 for matches against Argentina and Australia. He was on the preliminary 35-man list for the 2018 World Cup but didn’t make the final 23. His international career was limited, but the Olympic bronze remains a cherished achievement.
Injuries and Resilience
Rafinha faced significant injuries throughout his career. In October 2019, at Flamengo, he fractured a facial bone against Athletico Paranaense but returned wearing a protective mask, reminiscent of Petr Čech, showcasing his resilience.
Other injuries at Bayern and beyond tested his resolve, but he consistently bounced back stronger, adapting to new roles to extend his career.
Achievements and Legacy
Rafinha’s trophy cabinet is extensive: two Paraná Championships (2003, 2004) with Coritiba; Bundesliga runner-up (2009-10) with Schalke; the 2013 Champions League, 2013 Club World Cup, seven Bundesligas, and more with Bayern; the 2019 Libertadores, 2020 Carioca, Recopa, and Brazilian Championship with Flamengo; the 2020-21 Greek Super League with Olympiacos; the 2023 Copa do Brasil and 2024 Supercopa with São Paulo; and a 2008 Olympic bronze with Brazil.
His legacy transcends trophies. A relentless winner, he inspired generations with his professionalism and humility. In a December 2024 ge.globo interview, he reflected: “I missed a World Cup, but I achieved all my dreams.”
Retirement and New Chapter in 2025
In July 2025, Rafinha announced his retirement on Seleção Sportv at 39, tearfully stating, “No regrets, but with a heavy heart.” He had been without a club since March after leaving Coritiba.
Since April 2025, he has worked as a commentator for TNT Sports, covering the Champions League, and was hired by Sportv for the FIFA Club World Cup, focusing on Flamengo’s matches. This transition reflects his enduring passion for football, now shared with audiences. As of October 2025, he remains active in the studio, analyzing the sport he loves.
Rafinha leaves the pitch as one of his generation’s most complete right-backs, with a career bridging Brazil and Europe in harmony. His story inspires young athletes to chase their dreams with grit and perseverance.
