Overview
- Raphinha held an emotional news conference before Brazil's friendlies in Asia to reject claims he is uncommitted and to say he wants to play as much as his body allows.
- The forward has suffered several recent injuries in a similar area and underwent a minor operation on his left ear in late October, since when he has worn a thick protective head bandage.
- Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti and team staff have said player health is the priority and that they will manage Raphinha's minutes during the Japan and Singapore matches.
- FC Barcelona and coach Hansi Flick remain worried by Raphinha's record of returning from international duty with problems, and the club preferred the operation to take place during the FIFA break.
- Raphinha says he brought the surgery forward to be available for Brazil, a move that underscores his willingness to play but also sharpens the club-versus-country debate over player welfare and minutes management.