Bac Ninh, 27 July, 2026 – Bac Ninh FC have officially announced the signing of Brazilian center-back Rafael Santos de Sousa as the club continues to strengthen its squad ahead of the upcoming season.
Born on February 2, 1998, in Guarujá, Brazil, Rafael Santos is a 1.88-meter-tall, left-footed central defender. With his strong physical attributes and experience across several competitive football environments, the Brazilian is expected to add greater solidity and defensive quality to Bac Ninh FC’s back line.
Rafael began his career in the renowned youth academy of Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most successful and historic clubs. He later represented Flamengo at senior level before embarking on a European career that included spells with APOEL in Cyprus and Portuguese clubs Moreirense, Santa Clara, and Leixões.
The Brazilian defender also earned recognition at international youth level, receiving a call-up to the Brazil U16 national team in 2014, highlighting his potential from an early age.
His arrival is expected to significantly strengthen Bac Ninh FC’s defense, which relied exclusively on domestic players throughout last season. Rafael’s experience, aerial presence, and composure on the ball should provide the club with greater stability at the back as they prepare for the new campaign.
Rafael Santos is not the only Brazilian recruit to join Bac Ninh FC this transfer window. Prior to completing his signing, the club had already secured the services of Vitao, who arrived from Hanoi Police FC, underlining Bac Ninh’s ambition to build a stronger and more competitive squad for the season ahead.
VSN/RPT
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