Speaking at a press conference on Friday (13 November), Raphinha made it clear that he has no reluctance to represent Brazil. He said he remains ready to give his best in every match whenever his physical condition allows him to do so. According to the forward, the recent controversy arose largely because his earlier comments had been misunderstood.
The discussion followed a difficult spell with injuries during a recent international break. Raphinha reportedly suffered three injuries to the same area while representing Brazil, raising concerns about his ability to maintain consistency for both his national team and Barcelona.
His main concern, he explained, was avoiding further injuries. He wants to remain available for both sides rather than risk another setback through an excessive workload. However, he stressed that he had never suggested selecting which international matches he would play or miss.
For Raphinha, representing Brazil remains a matter of immense pride. He said wearing the national shirt has always carried special significance and that he has consistently tried to give everything whenever called upon. His commitment, he insisted, will remain unchanged.
The Barcelona forward also addressed the expectations placed on Brazil’s players and the criticism they face when performances fall short. In his view, footballers must be prepared to accept criticism when they fail to meet the standards expected of them.
Brazil are among the most successful and celebrated national teams in world football. Their history and reputation naturally create high expectations among supporters. Raphinha acknowledged that players must carry the responsibility that comes with representing such a prominent footballing nation and accept accountability when results are disappointing.
However, he also recognised that criticism can have a considerable emotional impact on players. Even when footballers give their maximum effort, harsh reactions from supporters and the media can be difficult to deal with. Raphinha pointed out that professional footballers are human beings too, with emotions and vulnerabilities like everyone else.
He also expressed frustration over being unable to perform to his full potential at the World Cup because of injury problems. As an important member of the squad, he had hoped to make a greater contribution, but his physical condition prevented him from fulfilling those expectations.
His injury during the match against France subsequently limited his appearances for Barcelona. He then experienced further problems in the same area while playing against Haiti, bringing renewed attention to his fitness and recovery.
Raphinha also clarified his conversation with Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti following the latest international break. According to the forward, their discussion was informal and straightforward. Ancelotti did not impose any restrictions on the number of minutes he could play for the national side.
Instead, the conversation focused on ensuring that Raphinha was fully fit and taking appropriate care of his physical condition. The emphasis was on managing his fitness rather than limiting his involvement in international matches.
Brazil are scheduled to face Japan at Singapore’s National Stadium on Saturday at 4.15pm. The fixture comes amid discussions about Raphinha’s fitness and his role in the national team.
His comments ahead of the match have made his position clear. He has no intention of reducing his commitment to Brazil and remains eager to represent his country whenever selected. At the same time, he recognises that maintaining his fitness is essential if he is to contribute consistently.
With responsibilities at both Barcelona and international level, managing his physical condition will remain an important part of his career. Raphinha’s message is simple: as long as he is fit and available, he wants to be on the pitch wearing Brazil’s shirt and giving his best for the national team.
