Lyon defender Rafael admits he was delighted with the atmosphere at Lyon's recent clash against rivals Saint-Etienne and has compared it to that he experienced when at Manchester United in games against Liverpool.
Rafael joined Manchester United in 2008 and remained with the club until this summer, something which allowed him to experience first hand the intense occasion of a game against fierce rivals Liverpool.
The two most successful clubs in English football going head-to-head is often considered the biggest game in the Premier League and for both clubs' fans, the fixture they look out for.
Before the international break, Rafael had the chance to experience Lyon's own version, when Saint-Etienne visited the Stade Gerland.
Lyon won 3-0 and Rafael was surprised at just how intense the atmosphere is, comparing it to a Manchester United-Liverpool match.
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He told French daily Le Progres: "I do not know if it was because it was the last derby at the Gerland, but for me it was a sensational evening.
"I did not expect anything so intense and I was proud to play in this game.
"It is like a Manchester United vs Liverpool game.
"That derby also depends on what happened in the previous one.
"I remember a Manchester United-Liverpool game with the conflict between [Luis] Suarez and [Patrice] Evra – and it was a great game."
Following a strong start to the season, Lyon currently sit second in the Ligue 1 standings. However, they are ten points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain, who have won eleven of their 13 games in a hugely successful opening period.
