Overview
- Raphinha told reporters he wants to play as many minutes as possible for Brazil and said he never renounced the national team while fighting back tears in a press conference before the friendlies.
- He said he advanced a minor surgery to remove a cyst from his left ear so he could join the national squad, and has worn a thick protective headband since the procedure.
- The player described three recent injuries in a similar area of his body and said his caution is aimed at avoiding another setback so he can remain available for both Brazil and FC Barcelona.
- Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said his priority is player health and that minutes will be managed, while Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed concern about the risk of international travel after Raphinha’s recent injury history.
- Raphinha started and wore the No. 10 for Brazil in the friendly with Japan, was substituted in the 71st minute, and Brazil lost 3-2 in the match in Singapore.