Biography

Rafinha started playing futsal when he was only 7 years old at Gremio Londrinense, a club in his hometown Londrina. Although he was a little child, he showed a great skill with the ball. The boy drew the attention of the P.S.T.C., a club from Parana and expert in discovering new players.
At his new club, Rafinha continued showing the same ability and other characteristics of his style of play, as speed. The player grew and, at the age of 16, was asked to return to the city where he would defend at Londrina FC, the largest club in town.
Although few experienced, Rafinha was highlighted again at the new club and ended up drawing the attention of one of the great clubs of the state, Coritiba. In 2003, Rafinha arrived at Couto Pereira Stadium and become one of the best players of the team who won the Championship of Parana twice.
When he was only 19, Rafinha was sold to Schalke 04 in Germany. The change to a new country did not scare the player. Despite the offensive style, the Brazilian fell in love with the crowd and is now one of the most valued players of the squad.