FC Brazil

Four Brazilians have helped Barcelona and Manchester United on their way to the 2009 Champions League final this Wednesday in Rome. But the one who has played more matches among them is exactly the player out of action tonight. Barcelona right wing back Daniel Alves took part in nine matches in the Champions League but picked up a second booking in the second leg of the semifinal against Chelsea and will watch the final from the stands.

“I am happy I helped the team to get to the final, but sad that I will not be on the pitch. I do not think Barcelona will be less stronger without me. It will not change the way our team plays. I am very confident we can win,” says Daniel.

The former EC Bahia and Sevilla FC player has already won three European trophies in his career (two Uefa Cups and one Super Cup with Sevilla). The one missing is the biggest of them all.

“It is not every day a team plays a Champions League final. We are very happy for that and trying to enjoy the moment. Manchester United is a great opponent and has the best player in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo. But Barcelona will show the same football it has played this season. If we have a great game we will be champions.”

Barcelona will have one Brazilian in action this Wednesday, the left-back Sylvinho. Manchester United has right-back Rafael da Silva and midfielder Anderson in its squad for the final.