Rafael Schmitz

Rafael Schmitz (born December 17, 1980) is a Brazilian association footballer who is currently playing for Valenciennes FC.
Schmitz, born in Blumenau, is a commanding central defender who is good in the air but also very agile and has good passing ability.

Schmitz spent six seasons with Lille OSC, for whom he played 99 Ligue 1 games and appeared in the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Cup.
He joined Birmingham City F.C. on loan for the Premier League 2007-08 on July 6, 2007.
He made his Birmingham debut as a very late substitute on September 15, 2007 against Bolton Wanderers F.C., and his first start on October 20, 2007 against Manchester City F.C. in place of the injured Johan Djourou. He returned to Lille following Birmingham's promotion and relegation at the end of the season.

On June 23, 2008, Schmitz signed a three-year contract with Valenciennes FC.