Rafael Rodríguez Ruiz (Sevilla, 10/07/2003) is a product of the MCF Academy, having joined Málaga’s youth setup at Cadete level after a developmental spell at Real Betis Balompié.
In the 2021/22 season, Rafa progressed from the Juvenil 'A' team to Atlético Malagueño. By the end of the following season, he made his first-team debut for Málaga CF as a reserve player under Sergio Pellicer at La Rosaleda, during the 42nd matchday of the Second Division against UD Ibiza (1-1).
After completing his third season with Atlético Malagueño in 2023/24, Rafa took his game to the next level in the 2024/25 campaign, showcasing his physical strength, excellent technical ability, and strong presence in the attacking third. He scored eight goals in 25 matches under coaches Funes and Bravo, playing a key role in the reserve team's impressive promotion to the Segunda Federación as champions of Group IX in the Tercera División.
At the same time, the Sevilla-born player has been a regular presence in training sessions, matchday squads, and games for Málaga CF during the final stretch of the 2024/25 LALIGA HYPERMOTION season. He featured in six matches, scoring a stunning goal in Eibar (2-2) on matchday 36 and another important equaliser against Burgos at La Rosaleda (2-2) in the final game of the campaign.
Close to turning 22 and in the midst of his footballing development, Rafa embodies Málaga Club de Fútbol's commitment to nurturing talent from the Academy and strengthening the club’s sporting project. Until 2028, Rafa!