Rafael Vela Rodrigues, from Oliveira do Bairro, entered Benfica's academy at under-17 level in 2017. He signed his first professional contract in February 2018 and renewed it in January 2021.

A left-back with a strong left foot and an attacking inclination, he was promoted to Benfica B in November 2020 and became one of the reserve side's most-used players, totalling 76 matches and one goal across four seasons in the Liga Portugal 2. He also featured in the UEFA Youth League and at the Under-20 Intercontinental Cup, and was capped by Portugal from under-16 through to under-21.

He was registered with the first-team squad from February 2023 but never played a competitive match for it; his only senior appearance came in a friendly against Southampton on 12 July 2023.

In July 2024 Benfica loaned him to the newly promoted AVS, and in July 2025 to Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates. Al Ain bought 60 per cent of his rights for a reported 2.5 million euros in June 2026, ending his time as a Benfica player.