Rafael Fernandes (footballer)

Rafael Tavares Gomes Fernandes (born 28 June 2002) is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Ligue 1 club Lille.

Professional career
A youth product of Sporting CP since 2010, he started playing with their reserves in the 2021-22 season. On 11 July 2022, he transferred to Arouca in the Primeira Liga signing a three-year contract. He made his professional debut as a half-time substitute in a 4–0 Primeira Liga loss to Benfica on 5 August 2022.

On 31 January 2024, Fernandes moved to Ligue 1 side Lille, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract. The French club paid a reported €3 million transfer fee.

International career
Fernandes is a youth international for Portugal, having played for the Portugal U18s and U20s.