GOLAZONEWSRafael Pereira granted United Arab Emirates citizenship
⚡ In 30 seconds
- Khorfakkan defender Rafael Pereira has obtained United Arab Emirates citizenship.
- The Brazilian-born player is now eligible to represent the national team.
- He could potentially feature in the 2027 Asian Cup.
Following six seasons playing in the country, Khorfakkan defender Rafael Pereira has been granted citizenship in the United Arab Emirates. This change in status makes the Brazilian-born player eligible to represent the United Arab Emirates national football team.
Should he be selected for the squad, Pereira is now in a position to compete in the Asian Cup, which is scheduled for January 2027. He follows in the footsteps of fellow Capixaba Álvaro Oliveira, the half-brother of Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison. Oliveira received his citizenship in 2025 and has already appeared in an Asian qualifying match for the national team.