Rafael Lara: “I’ll be just another fan on the court” | OneFootball

Wearing the FC Porto shirt “was one of Rafael Lara’s dreams.” That is why the Brazilian winger accepted without hesitation “an invitation that many people would be lucky to receive.” Back at a home that “has always been part” of his life, the new number 20 in futsal assures that he will “represent the Club with all his determination” and “try to take it to the highest level as quickly as possible,” true to his passion for Porto. “I’ll be one more supporter on the court,” says Rafael Lara, “honoured to be part of FC Porto’s history” and to “have been chosen to represent the club of my heart” in the very first year of the project.

An invitation impossible to refuse“It was a surprising invitation. It was one of my dreams, and having the chance to receive this invitation… I didn’t even think twice. I’m going to represent this Club in the most genuine way and with all my determination. This was my dream and my family’s dream. I’m very grateful, because many people would be lucky to receive this invitation.”

Goals for 2026/27“The goals, first and foremost, are always collective, especially as a Porto supporter. I will follow whatever guidance is given to me and try to take this badge to the highest level as quickly as possible.”

A Porto supporter at all times“I’ll be one more supporter on the court. I’ve already had the privilege of carrying this weight, because when I was younger I even played for FC Porto. Having this opportunity again is a blessing, but it is also the result of a lot of hard work.”

The meaning of number 20“It was the number my father wore in the first season when he played futsal, and I think it is symbolic for me. Deep down, I’m following my father’s legacy.”

A new chapter“I have huge expectations. I’m very happy. The creation of futsal at FC Porto was something I wanted, and so did all Porto supporters. I feel very honoured to be part of this chapter. I’m excited and very happy.”

The return home“I feel immense gratitude. FC Porto was the first club that opened its doors to me in Portugal. It’s a club I have always followed, even while representing other badges. This Club is and always will be in my heart. I feel very grateful for everything they have already done for me and for the way they helped me. Even at times when I wasn’t playing here, FC Porto was always part of my life.”

Cardinal as captain“I think he will create a very good atmosphere. For us, it is an honour to play alongside a reference figure in Portuguese futsal. A winning team starts in the dressing room. There is no one better than Cardinal to be captain and to lead a dressing room like ours.”

A message to the supporters“I would like to ask them to be patient and to help us on this journey. We are still at the beginning, but we hope it will go well. We ask for their support because, like us, we know they are happy too. For my part, I can promise hard work. I believe we will exceed the expectations of all Porto supporters.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.