Rafael Pontelo

Rafael da Silva Pontelo (born 22 January 2003) is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Primeira Liga club Sporting CP.

Club career
Pontelo was born in Matozinhos and raised in Sete Lagoas. He is a youth product of América Mineiro, Bela Vista, and Ponte Preta. From Ponte Preta he moved on loan to the Spanish club Real Valladolid in 2022, and then Cruzeiro until 2023. On 11 July 2023, he transferred to Leixões in the Liga Portugal 2 on a 3-year contract where he began his senior career.

On 2 January 2024, he transferred to Sporting CP in the Primeira Liga on a contract until 2028. He made his debut with Sporting CP as a starter in a 4–0 Taça de Portugal win over Tondela on 9 January 2024.

Personal life
Born in Brazil, Pontelo is of Italian descent and holds dual citizenship. Turned down at Atlético Mineiro because of his slight build, as a child and teenager he escaped street life, crime and violence with the help of Ponte Preta.

Honours
Sporting CP
 * Primeira Liga: 2023–24