Rafael Injury: Updates on Manchester United Star's Status and Return

Manchester United right-back Rafael returned to the team's roster on Boxing Day, when the Red Devils took on Newcastle United.

Continue for updates.

Friday, Dec. 26

Rafael Makes Boxing Day Return

According to Newcastle United's official Twitter feed, Rafael made his return to the pitch on Boxing Day:

Sunday, Dec. 14

Rafael Remains Unfit to Play

Manchester United confirmed Rafael was not available to play vs. Liverpool today:

Monday, Dec. 1

Rafael Returns to Training

Rafael is ready to strengthen Manchester United's defence, according to the Telegraph's Mark Ogden:

Wednesday, Nov. 12

van Gaal Speaks on Rafael's Recovery

Jamie Jackson of The Guardian provides a statement from Louis van Gaal discussing Rafael's potential return for Manchester United:

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Falcao has a calf injury, Evans a foot problem, Da Silva a muscular complaint, and Jones is recovering from a shin problem. All the issues are severe enough that they might not even make the bench for the game on 22 November at the Emirates.

Asked if any of the quartet might return, Van Gaal said: 'No, I don’t think so because now some of them have already not played for five, six, seven weeks. They could sit on the bench because they can play 20 minutes but I cannot put a lot of players who are not 100% fit on the bench. You saw what happened with [Paddy] McNair [getting cramp against Crystal Palace] because the rhythm of the game is very high in the Premier League.'

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Friday, Nov. 7

Rafael to Miss Crystal Palace Game

Van Gaal confirmed at Friday's pre-match presser that Rafael will not return for Saturday's visit of Crystal Palace:

Sunday, Nov. 2

Rafael Ruled Out of Manchester Derby

Manchester United were dealt a blow in their attempt to win the Manchester derby against Manchester City in the day's leading up to Sunday's fixture, as right-back Rafael was unable to suit up for the match. 

Manchester United's official Twitter account provides the update:

Rafael has made six appearances for United in the Premier League this season, notching an assist and earning a 7.11 average match rating per WhoScored.com. 

Without Rafael in action, United was forced to call upon winger Antonio Valencia to fill in at at right-back.