Rafinha has revealed that his season-long loan move from Barcelona to Celta Vigo is a dream come true.
The Brazilian penned a new three-year contract with the Blaugrana last month and completed his switch to Celta on Monday in search of some first-team experience in La Liga.
“I am not one to get particularly nervous, but I have to admit when I was arriving at Balaidos, with all the people waiting, my hair stood on end," explained Rafinha to reporters and fans, as reported Football Espana.
“This is a very emotional day, it is a dream to play for Celta in the Primera Division. It is the best place where I can be.
“I intend to help the team, to give my all and to return the ambition that they are putting in me."
Rafinha will reunite with former Barca B Coach Luis Enrique at Celta, return to the city where his mother lives and to play for the club that his father represented over a decade ago, which he is delighted with.
He added: “This is a team that I have always been fond of, being part of my family, and here is a coach that I have already worked with.
“[His brother, Bayern Munich bound] Thiago is one of those that helped me in this decision. We have always been very close and I am very much excited to be here."
The crowd that greeted the young midfielder also had chants for his father, 1994 World Cup winner Mazinho, who spent four years of his professional career with the Galicians.
“My father is a world champion, I cannot compare with him, whilst I’m a more offensive footballer. But we both have the same willingness to work in the field," Rafinha continued.
“I usually play in central midfield but I can play in up to four different positions."
