Barcelona worried as key forward most likely to be called up for Japan and Singapore friendlies in Asia
Barcelona could face another setback in their efforts to restore Raphinha to full fitness, with Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti expected to consider the winger for the national team’s November friendlies, according to SPORT.
As admitted by the player himself, the Brazilian has yet to regain his best form following an injury sustained against Australia in September, and a long trip to Singapore could complicate his recovery.
Ancelotti is due to announce his squad on Thursday, with Brazil scheduled to face Japan on November 14 before meeting Singapore on November 17.
The matches would require Raphinha to travel approximately 11,000 kilometres from Barcelona, raising concerns about his workload as he attempts to return to peak condition.
Raphinha Brazil call-up raises Barcelona injury concerns
Raphinha’s potential inclusion comes at a delicate point in his recovery.
The Barcelona attacker was injured against Australia in Brisbane on September 29 and has not yet returned to his previous level, although he has indeed returned to the field.
Ancelotti could yet again call Raphinha for November friendlies. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Ideally, Barcelona would prefer to see the winger regain full fitness before taking on further international commitments.
His importance to the team’s attack makes any risk of another setback particularly concerning, especially if he has to manage long-distance travel alongside two international fixtures.
SPORT reports that Barcelona could seek an agreement with Ancelotti or officials from the Brazilian Football Confederation to keep Raphinha out of the squad.
Unless an arrangement is reached, the winger could be called up for the upcoming matches.
Carlo Ancelotti plans Brazil friendlies against Japan and Singapore
Brazil’s November schedule includes a meeting with Japan, followed by a fixture against hosts Singapore, and both matches will require selected players to travel to Asia.
The report also highlights a difference in Brazil’s approach to domestic and European clubs.
Raphinha is still not operating at 100% fitness. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
With only four rounds remaining in the Brasileirao after the international break, the CBF has agreed not to select players from teams involved in the domestic title race or fighting to avoid relegation.
That arrangement could offer protection to some Brazilian clubs, but Barcelona do not have the same assurance regarding Raphinha.
The situation leaves the Catalan club dependent on discussions with the national team setup if they want to avoid another demanding trip for the forward.
Why Barcelona are worried about another Raphinha injury
The concern is amplified by Raphinha’s recent injury history while representing Brazil.
This is because each of his last three call-ups has been followed by an injury, including a five-week absence during a March international break that coincided with Barcelona’s Copa del Rey and Champions League eliminations against Atletico Madrid.
Furthermore, an injury during the 2026 World Cup and his more recent setback against Australia make the prospect of another international assignment a source of anxiety for Barcelona.
