Raphinha used an emotional press conference to reject the idea that he is turning his back on Brazil. The Barcelona captain, who renewed his contract until 2030 and was promoted to captain this season, said the reaction to his comments hurt him and that he was only trying to explain why he wants to manage his body after repeated injuries.

Raphinha's explanation

Speaking to Foot Mercato, in comments translated from French, Raphinha said: "I thought I had been clear, at least, that is what I believed. Given everything I went through during my last three call-ups, with three injuries practically in the same place, I simply wanted to say that I had to take care of myself. Obviously, I do not want to get injured again. I want to be available not only for the national team, but also for Barcelona."

He added: "It is normal for criticism to affect us. We are human beings, and despite all our efforts, certain things affect us. It is natural." He also said that anyone in his place would be affected by criticism while trying to give their best, and that representing Brazil is a huge responsibility.

Raphinha's point is hard to dismiss. He has 15 goals in 11 appearances across all competitions this season, and 4 of those came in 3 Champions League appearances. That output is exactly why Barcelona are uneasy about any fresh setback, especially when the player himself says his last three call-ups brought three injuries practically in the same area of the leg.

Barcelona's concern

The concern in Barcelona is understandable, but the public line from Raphinha is still clear. He said fitness, not loyalty, should decide whether he plays, and that if his body no longer allows it, he would retire before forcing the issue.

Carlo Ancelotti has also said Raphinha is doing very well with Brazil and at Barcelona, while barcauniversal.com reported that Barcelona and the Brazilian Football Confederation have coordinated his involvement during the two friendlies in Singapore. Brazil face Japan on November 14 and Singapore on November 17.

For Barcelona, the immediate issue is not the argument on social media. It is keeping one of their sharpest attackers available through a run that still has the club relying on him at both ends of the pitch.

Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 5 outlets. How we work →