You are comparing them by the number of goals? What a weird comparison then, mainly they have about the same numbers but it's not about them.Much better how? Have you watched Darmian through out his career to make such a claim? Im not saying I have, but look at their numbers. Rafael has played 169 senior career games with 5 goals. Darmian has played 195 with 7 goals. Rafael has played 11 more European games than Darmian but thats no surprise considering he played for United. Darmian still has 3 goals in Europe and Rafael had none.
Darmian is also first choice RB for Italy and represented them at the World cup in 2014, playing every minute of every game. Rafael's only senior tournament for Brazil was the 2012 London Olympics. Darmian won the Pallone Azzurro for being Italy's best national team player in 2014 and he was part of the Serie A team of the year in 2013/14. Rafael has won more medals obviously but Darmian has proved himself more individually. Darmian is only 7 months older than Rafael
We all know how odd decisions Scolari and co make in terms of team selection, there was always big competition past 5 years, Maicon, Alves being always favourites. Brazilians are very little fond of EPL unless the player is a big superstar.
I certainly didn't watch Darmian enough but something inside me tells me that it will take some time for Italian to adapt to the new league and that we should give Rafael proper chance under Van Gaal, maybe the gaffer was fed up with all the injuries Rafa had but he once reached world class level and since that he only struggled with injuries so it makes me feel that Darmian who goes only for 14m might not be at the level of Rafael's yet..
if Young/Fellaini could resurrect their careers than why not 25 yo Rafael, and Mr. Robbo Valencia stays I am really angry with the decision but hopefully Darmian will come good soon..