Overview
- Raphinha spoke at an emotional press conference on Friday to clarify comments he made about managing playing time and to insist he has never abandoned the national team.
- He confirmed he discussed minute management with Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti because of three injuries in nearly the same area across recent call-ups.
- Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes publicly backed Raphinha, saying teammates and staff had misread his words and that the player remains committed to the Seleção.
- Barcelona and the Brazilian federation have drawn up plans to restrict Raphinha's minutes for the friendlies against Japan and Singapore on November 14 and 17 to protect his fitness.
- The controversy follows Raphinha's recent Barcelona contract renewal and a minor ear procedure on arrival to camp, and he warned he will retire when he can no longer perform physically.