Rafinha clears Rumours of contact with Germany FA

Having turned down Brazil, Rafinha said he has never
had contact with anyone from Germany's national
federation.

Bayern Munich defender Rafinha denied suggestions he wanted
to play for Germany after rejecting a Brazil call-up.

The right-back was initially included in Dunga's squad for
upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but he withdrew – wishing not
to be considered.

It led to suggestions the 30-year-old could be moving to play for
world champions Germany, as he is seeking citizenship in the
European country.

But Rafinha said his decision was purely down to not being a
Brazil regular and he denied ever having contact with the
German Football Association (DFB).

"I am here to clarify something to you, who agree and disagree
with my decision," he wrote on Twitter.

"Everyone has the right to think and interpret it the way seem fit
"I asked to be released from Selecao because I don't see myself
fighting for a spot on the right-back, not because I'm changing
Brazil for Germany.

"I'm not in touch, and never was in touch with anyone from
DFB... So, this thing of denying Selecao or my homeland is not
my thing.

"Just remember 2008, when I got into a dispute with Schalke 04,
my club back then, so I could represent Brazil at the Olympics.

By the way, Dunga was the coach at the time, he called me to
join the 23-man squad.

"So let's be clear, it's not because I'm requesting my dual
citizenship that I want to play for Germany. I was very, very
happy for being called again... But when I analysed my
situation, I felt the right thing to do was to ask for my release.

"I thank Gilmar Rinaldi [Brazil technical coordinator] and coach
Dunga for understanding this."