The elegant centre-back was injured in the Europa League tie against Sevilla in April, the same game when defensive partner Lisandro Martinez picked up a foot problem that ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

Thankfully, although being treated carefully, Rapha was able to return in the run-in to help United achieve the aim of securing a top-four place, finishing in third spot ahead of Newcastle United, and also appear in the Emirates FA Cup final against Manchester City.

With his vast experience of the Champions League, winning it four times, he is likely to prove crucial when we begin our campaign ihat competition later this year.

It is something that clearly motivates the ice-cool defender.

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