Rafa Silva claimed injury but tests showed no serious issues, says ex-Beşiktaş director

Former Beşiktaş sports director Serkan Reçber has shed light on persistent issues within the club and detailed his experience with player Rafa Silva. Reçber stated that Beşiktaş has faced "hereditary problems" for years, requiring time and multiple transfer windows to address. He explained that the club aimed to increase its squad's core by 70-80% through summer transfers after already forming 30-40% of the team mid-season. This strategy, he believed, would make them strong contenders for the championship. Reçber also made striking revelations about Rafa Silva, who left Beşiktaş for Benfica after a difficult period. Silva had repeatedly claimed back pain, but medical examinations, including MRIs, revealed no significant issues. Reçber noted that Silva's pain complaints were minor and common. He observed that Silva did not push himself during high-intensity training sessions, often performing stretching exercises on the floor while the team engaged in fitness work. Silva's performance in these drills fell significantly below required speed levels. Even coach Sergen Yalçın reportedly told the athletic staff to let Silva handle his training as he wished. Reçber further recounted that Silva resisted routine medical procedures, refusing blood tests and monthly urine tests. He described the situation as being far beyond what could be resolved through communication.

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He would come and say he was injured. When we asked where it hurt, he would say 'my back hurts.' We did an MRI, sent him twice. There was no serious problem with his back. Minor issues are things everyone can experience.