Rafael Rodrigues has permanently transferred to Al Ain from Benfica, with the deal announced on Wednesday. The 24-year-old Portuguese left-back agreed to a contract with the club from the United Arab Emirates that is valid until 2030. The transfer follows a loan spell for Rodrigues at Al Ain during the previous season, during which he made 23 appearances and provided 3 assists in the UAE Pro League. The player has 13 caps for Portugal U21. He had a contract with Benfica until June 2027 and leaves the Lisbon club, which he joined in 2014, without ever making a debut for the senior team. His current market value is €900k.