(Manchester United News)
Rafael has been ruled out for the rest of the season as Louis van Gaal confirmed to MUTV that the full-back has broken his ribs.
The Brazilian was hurt towards the end of the first half of the Under-21s' 1-1 draw at Leicester City on Monday night and was clearly in some discomfort when being helped off the pitch.
His last first-team appearance came as a substitute against Tottenham, his 10th Barclays Premier League outing of 2014/15, but he has been a regular in the matchday squad since the FA Cup tie with Arsenal.
Following Sunday's clash at Everton, the Reds have four games in May to wrap up the campaign but the South American will be unavailable as he recovers from the injury setback.
"It's unbelievable," the boss told MUTV. "He has broken his ribs so he shall not play any more this season for Manchester United. It's very unfortunate."
