Tottenham continue to monitor Vasco da Gama’s rising star Rayan, and the teenager’s maturity off the pitch is proving as impressive as his performances on it.
The 19-year-old forward, one of Brazil’s brightest prospects, has made it clear to Globo Esporte that his dream is to play in Europe… but only when he feels ready to “arrive and stay”.
Rayan has been seeking advice from manager Fernando Diniz and especially teammate Philippe Coutinho, who made the same leap from Vasco to Europe as a teenager.
“Some players go to Europe early but end up coming back,” he said. “So I ask Coutinho for help. I want to make my name in Europe and then make my name here at Vasco again. He tells me what I need to do, just like Diniz does.”
The young forward also understands the importance of preparation beyond football. “You have to work on and off the pitch. With a psychologist, a nutritionist, and arrive ready to stay,” he added.
For now, the Tottenham target’s focus remains on Vasco. Rayan renewed his contract in mid-2025 despite receiving approaches from Europe. However, he is eager for the future.
“With the moment I’m living and with Diniz’s support, I know I can reach the national team and play in Europe,” he said. “God is making a very special path for me.”
Rayan’s improvement under Fernando Diniz has been one of the keys to his success. The forward says the coach has completely transformed his defensive awareness and intensity.
“I’ve improved a lot in my defensive game,” he explained. “Before, we defended in a medium or low block. With him, I improved the high press. He demands a lot. Mark first, then play. I always try to run as fast as possible to the other side because he pushes me hard there.”
The bond between Rayan and Diniz has gone beyond tactics. The teenager describes his manager as a “father figure” who changed his mentality from day one.
“In my first training session, he told me to get the ball and carry it all the way into the goal,” Rayan recalled. “I did it, and then did it again in a match. After that, he said I had great potential and a chance with the national team. He told me I wasn’t a player to score just once. I should be scoring two or three each game. That opened my mind.”
Each new match shows how much he has evolved. His discipline, confidence, and finishing have turned him into one of South America’s top young attackers.
Tottenham’s scouts reportedly are among those who have seen that growth first-hand. And when the time comes for his move to Europe, Rayan looks determined to be ready.