The relationship twins share is a very unique and special one. It has been said that twins can share a somewhat telepathic relationship with each other. On the other hand being a twin doesn’t come without some problems.
Twins are always compared to each other and from a young age particularly with identical twins are often dressed and made to look the same. Competition is always tough with twins who can sometimes struggle to find their own identity.
Of course at Manchester United there are two sets of twins at the club. The Da Silva’s (Fabio and Rafael) who have established themselves in the first-team squad and the Keane’s (Michael and Will) who will be breaking through in the next year or so.
After much speculation it came as no surprise yesterday when it was announced that Fabio would be going out on a season-long loan to QPR. The London club managed by Mark Hughes are in need of reinforcements and it will be a great chance for the young Brazilian to emerge out of Rafael’s shadow and make a name for himself.
Despite starting the 2011 Champions League final against Barcelona ahead of his brother, Fabio was a victim of the competition for places in United’s defence last season only making 15 appearances, 7 of which came in Europe.
But for Patrice Evra holding down the left-back place, Fabio would have certainly played more last season. Whilst there were rumours that a loan-move to Benfica was on the cards, the club will benefit far more by him going out on a loan to a fellow Premier League side.
At QPR, Fabio will be under more pressure in games than he would had he gone to Benfica. He will be tested out more in games and will vastly improve as a result of coming up against better wingers and attackers. We know just like his brother he’s good going forward, but can he hold his own in a tight situation at the back, will his positioning improve, can he succeed as the club’s new left-back when Evra moves on?
All these questions will be answered sooner rather than later. But for now Fabio faces a stern test of his ability. At first he might not be expected to start for QPR but come the end of the season, he will be expected to have played the best part of 25-30 games and come back to Old Trafford a stronger player known for his own qualities and not just for being Rafael’s brother.
Adam Dennehey
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