Rafael da Silva has signed for Lyon from Manchester United.
Accord pour le transfert de Rafael da Silva qui va signer un contrat de 4 ans => http://t.co/VJQWOuMMEn #teamOL pic.twitter.com/1aGzLTUE4l
— Olympique Lyonnais (@OL) August 3, 2015
Rafael da Silva has officially departed Manchester United, signing for French side Lyon.
The Ligue 1 challengers confirmed via their official website that Rafael had agreed a four-year deal.
The Brazilian's departure has been met with sadness by many United fans, even if there is a practical realisation that the time is right to move on.
After establishing himself under Sir Alex Ferguson's management, Rafael lost his way under David Moyes and also failed to convince Louis van Gaal.
With Matteo Darmian signed, his opportunities would have been limited this coming season, and at 25-years-old he needs to play regularly if he is to kick on and fulfil his outstanding potential.
A three-time Premier League winner, he will be missed far more than Angel di Maria, who is expected to join PSG. Rafael could even go head to head with the Argentine next season when Lyon take on the French champions.
Rafael signed in 2007 from Fluminense along with twin brother Fabio da Silva, and despite originally being touted as the less talented of the two, it was Rafael who made a bigger impact and ultimately outlasted his sibling, who was sold to Cardiff City 18 months ago.
Here is a look at how United fans reacted to the news of Rafael's sale...
He developed himself 2 a #MUFC symbol - passion, desire,commitment,proudness,pride-very,very sad 2 see #Rafael leave https://t.co/BqBjPOaeQc
— PB (@Paedar_1958) August 3, 2015
Absolutely loved Rafael, the epitome of passion #mufc @orafa2
— Ben Armstrong (@BenArmstrong16) August 3, 2015
Says alot !! #MUFC #RAFAEL pic.twitter.com/b1x3qvQv9T
— Sandeep matharu (@san_mat7) August 3, 2015
Remember when we smashed Arsenal with Rafael, Gibson, O'Shea and Fabio in midfield? One of my best trips to Old Trafford. #MUFC
— Shah S Afzal (@perennialpurist) August 3, 2015
@orafa2 All the best Rafael! You will be missed. #mufc
— Kole (@kolered) August 3, 2015
How is it that @ManUtd sells players for so cheap? Rafael can easily fetch £15 - £20 M #Mufc
— Clinton Abraham (@ClintpMUFC) August 3, 2015
Rafael-Ferdinand-Vidic-Evra. Sir Alex's legendary defense has finally departed Old Trafford. Hard to believe really. #mufc
— Noufil (@UtdNoufil) August 3, 2015
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