Former Bayern defender Rafinha announces retirement from professional football

Former Brazil international defender Rafinha has announced his retirement from professional football, ending a career that spanned more than 20 years.

Rafinha, the former Brazil international defender, has formally declared his retirement from professional football, concluding a remarkable career that lasted over two decades.

The 39-year-old had been uncertain about his future after departing Brazilian Serie B team Coritiba in March.

"Today, I am officially announcing my retirement as a professional soccer player," Rafinha stated during an interview with Sportv. "This journey has been incredible, and I never anticipated reaching this point in my life.

"It is with a heavy heart that I close a chapter that has been my life’s work. However, every journey has a start and an end, and I carry no regrets. I accomplished everything I set out to achieve in football," he expressed.

Rafinha kicked off his career at Coritiba in 2002 and subsequently moved to Germany's Schalke from 2005 to 2010. The right-back then had stints with Genoa (2010-2011), Bayern Munich, and Flamengo, before making a return to Coritiba in December last year. He earned four caps for the Brazilian national team.

During his time at Bayern, Rafinha made a total of 266 competitive appearances, securing seven Bundesliga titles, four DFB Cups, and being a vital part of the treble-winning squad in 2013.

Sao Paulo, his club, paid homage to their departing captain, acknowledging his significant contributions in terms of both trophies and leadership. 

"Our captain in the victories of the 2023 Copa do Brasil and the 2024 Supercopa Rei, Marcio Rafael Ferreira de Souza, announced his retirement from the pitch on July 21, 2025.

"A devoted Sao Paulo fan, Rafinha fulfilled his dream of representing the Tricolor from 2022 to 2024, proudly wearing our jersey in 117 matches. Congratulations on your incredible journey in football and best wishes for your future endeavors!"