Bournemouth’s growing Brazilian contingent is starting to shape the club’s season, with both Rayan and Evanilson offering insight into their rapid progress in the Premier League and their ambitions ahead of the World Cup.
In an interview with ESPN Brazil, the pair reflected on adaptation, form, and life under Andoni Iraola, while also touching on the wider impact of their performances – including attention from rival fans and the Brazil national team setup.
Fast start and growing confidence
Rayan has wasted little time making an impression in England. His early contributions have helped Bournemouth build momentum, and he made clear how important that start has been for his confidence.
“I’m very happy. Leaving Rio and coming here isn’t easy. But arriving and getting an assist in my first game, then scoring in my first start in the Premier League, that boosts confidence a lot,” he said.
“The coach has given me a lot of confidence and always talks to me. Since I arrived, we’re unbeaten, so I’m very happy and want to keep it going.”
Evanilson, now in his second Premier League season, has taken on a key role in helping his compatriot settle.
“I didn’t speak English either when I arrived. I’m still learning,” he explained.
“I was the only Brazilian here, so when I heard Rayan was coming, I messaged him on Instagram. Since he arrived, we’ve been together a lot – lunches, our families meeting, our wives know each other as well, and we arrange a lot of things outside the club. I’m doing everything to help him adapt quickly.”
He also pointed to Rayan’s immediate impact on the pitch: “Since he arrived, our team has improved a lot.”
Big results and outside attention
Bournemouth’s recent win over Arsenal stood out as a defining moment. Evanilson, who scored against the entire big-six this season, highlighted the significance of beating the league leaders away from home.
“We knew how difficult it would be. Arsenal are top of the league, a big club with quality players. Winning there gave us even more confidence,” he said.
That result did not go unnoticed elsewhere. Rayan revealed that Manchester City fans reached out after the game.
“I got messages on Instagram from City fans thanking us for beating Arsenal,” he said. “They’re confident they can turn things around, especially after their 3-0 win over Chelsea the next day, and with a big match coming up.”
Iraola influence and World Cup focus
Both players were also keen to praise Iraola, who is set to leave at the end of the season.
Evanilson said: “He’s a great coach. He helped me a lot and gave me confidence. I’ve learned a lot from him.”
Rayan drew comparisons with the manager that developed him in Brazil, Fernando Diniz, highlighting the communication and trust he has received.
“He talks to me a lot and helps me, especially with the language. He develops players and gives confidence. I can only thank him for these months,” he explained.
Looking ahead, both have their eyes on Brazil selection. Evanilson stressed the importance of club performances first.
“He has to keep doing his work here. The Premier League is very competitive, and the national team coach watches closely. I’m rooting for him,” he said.
Rayan echoed that mindset and expanded on the work required both on and off the pitch: “There’s a lot of competition, many quality attackers. I have to keep working, stay prepared, doing what I need to do on the pitch and also off it, taking care of myself and preparing properly. My chance will come. Being called up before was a dream. Working with Ancelotti was very important for me.”
What this means for Bournemouth
Rayan’s early impact and Evanilson’s growing leadership underline Bournemouth’s smart use of the Brazilian market. The chemistry between the two is already translating into results.
Moreover, their performances are feeding into a bigger narrative. Strong Premier League form is keeping them firmly in the Brazil conversation, while also drawing attention from across the league.
With Iraola still in charge for now, Bournemouth have a stable platform. The next step will be maintaining this momentum – and ensuring these individual stories continue to benefit the collective push.
