According to sources in Spain, Sabadell have set their sights on one of Brazil’s most exciting water polo prospects — Rafael Vergara. The move, if confirmed, would mark a significant step in the career of a player who has already made waves on both sides of the Atlantic.
At just 22, Vergara has built a reputation as one of the most dynamic young talents to emerge from Brazil in recent years. With international pedigree and collegiate success in the United States, the São Paulo native appears ready for the next leap — and Sabadell may be the club to give him that platform.
The Spanish side’s interest comes as no surprise. With a strong track record of developing top-level talent and competing at the highest levels in Spain and Europe, Sabadell would be a natural fit for a player eager to test himself in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
Vergara’s CV already reads like that of a seasoned professional. A senior international since 2018, he won gold at the South American Championship in Trujillo and bronze at the Pan American Championship the following year. At youth level, he was a two-time gold medalist at the UANA Pan American Junior Championships, held in Jamaica (2015) and Florida (2018), earning top scorer and MVP honors in the latter.
He also starred at the UANA Cup in São Paulo, helping Brazil secure gold after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the United States in the final — a moment Vergara later described as the greatest achievement of his young career.
From São Paulo to the NCAA
Vergara’s journey took him from his hometown club Esporte Clube Pinheiros to the NCAA, where he played for Long Beach State and then UCLA — two of the top college programs in the United States. His time at UCLA further cemented his reputation as one of the most dangerous attacking players in the college game, combining speed, creativity, and a clinical finishing touch.
What Comes Next?
A move to Europe has long felt inevitable. Sabadell’s reported interest makes perfect sense — the club is known for giving young talent the chance to develop while competing at the highest levels. But the question remains: will other clubs enter the race?
With his technical ability, international experience, and proven performance in both South America and the NCAA, Vergara won’t be short of suitors. Whether Sabadell can move quickly enough to secure his signature — or whether another top European club will pounce — remains to be seen.