A tractor that has accumulated objectives throughout 2025 at only 19 years old.
Vasco’s Rayan transformed under Fernando Diniz and became a reference and favorite of Vasco fans in the current season.
The youngster led the Gigante da Colina to the Copa do Brasil final – and perhaps even the title, which will be decided on Sunday.
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He even broke the records set by Roberto Dinamite and Romário while wearing the Vasco jersey.
All this earned Rayan 7th place in the rankings OneFootball Ball 2025!
The prize, awarded by Brazilian journalists from UnFootballlists the best performing players throughout 2025 in Brazil, all competitions combined.
We will reveal one name per day until December 25, when the winner of the OneFootball 2025 Ball will be announced.
8th place – Flaco López, Palmeiras striker
9th place – Jorginho, Flamengo midfielder
10th place – Thiago Silva, Fluminense defender
💎 Jewel of the Hill
Coming from the youth training center, Rayan has defended the colors of Vasco since the age of 9.
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The youngster stood out until he reached professional side Gigante da Colina.
Although he made his debut – and scored – in 2023, it was in 2025 that Rayan captured national attention.
He has scored 20 goals in 53 matches this season.
Roberto Dinamite and Romário only managed to score 20 goals in a year when they were 20 years old.
And he could score even more, as he faces the Copa do Brasil final.
😳 Brazil’s top scorer on the bench
The youngster’s form is so good that Diniz has changed his position in the team, moving him from the wing to lead the attack.
As a result, Pablo Vegetti, Brazil’s top scorer with 27 goals, was sent to the bench.
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It is true that the Argentine continued to come on and score his goals, but Vasco’s coach prioritized strengthening Rayan as a strong, fast and central striker in Vasco’s tactical setup.
✍️ Contract renewal until 2028
With so much attention in Brazil, European clubs have kept a close eye on the 19-year-old’s performances and development.
But Vasco acted faster and obtained the renewal of Rayan’s contract.
He obtained a salary increase, signed until 2028, and set a release clause of 80 million euros (R$520 million).
However, there is a good chance that number 77 will not stay in São Januário in 2026.
📸 Wagner Meier – 2025 Getty Images
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So, do you think he will stay at Vasco next season? Leave your comment!
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
📸 MAURO PIMENTEL – AFP or licensors
