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Rafinha Alcântara Retires From Football at 32 After Yearlong Knee Injury

A La Masia graduate, he steps away after a stop‑start career shaped by injuries.

Overview

  • The Brazilian announced his decision in a social‑media video on Dec. 22, saying a serious knee problem prevents a return to top‑level competition.
  • He has been without a club since leaving Al‑Arabi in July 2024 following stints with Barcelona, Celta, Inter, PSG and Real Sociedad.
  • Barcelona and Celta posted farewell messages on their social channels following the announcement.
  • His résumé includes being part of Barcelona’s 2014–15 treble under Luis Enrique as well as an Olympic gold with Brazil at Rio 2016.
  • Reports detail more than 20 injuries and roughly 900 days sidelined during his career, and he says he will focus on family and new projects, having recently worked in media.