Manchester United will be looking to make amends against Istanbul Başakşehir at Old Trafford this evening, as a win will take them a step closer to qualifying from their Champions League group.
The Red Devils looked lacklustre during that 2-1 defeat earlier in the month, but do head into tonight’s fixture on the back of two successive league wins. They will be looking to get one over the Turkish side, and against one of their own past teammates in Rafael.
A cult hero around the streets of Old Trafford, the Brazilian was a talking point heading into the first game. Solskjaer spoke about the defender and his twin brother, praising them for their passion and attitude towards the game.
The duo were fan favourites during their time at the club, with Rafael still putting the occasional post out online, following United and their results. Some supporters remain critical of the decision to have let the right-back go back in 2015, something Solskjaer agrees with.
Speaking to the club’s official website, the Norwegian had the following to say: “There’s good players there and of course it’s always good to see Rafa. He’s such a fantastic boy, but I want to see a smile on my face rather than his face after the game this time.
“He’s a Red through and through. I was disappointed when we let him go because he’s such a valuable player and person to have in and around the group. He’s just one of those players with Man United DNA so he knows what we feel about him and what I feel about him. We’ll have a good conversation after the game. It’s a fantastic family and of course I signed Fabio for Cardiff, so I’ve enjoyed their company many times.”
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