Raphinha addressed criticism regarding his commitment to the Brazil national team on Friday, visibly emotional as he defended his recent comments on playing time.
The Barcelona forward spoke ahead of Brazil’s friendly match against Japan, scheduled for Saturday at 11:15 a.m. in Singapore.
The controversy stemmed from comments Raphinha made in Barcelona, which were interpreted in his home country as a request to limit his minutes on the pitch with the national side. The forward explicitly rejected the suggestion that he wanted to avoid playing for his country.
“I want to play every game and as many minutes as possible. I also said that, if my body allows it, I will give the best of me,” Raphinha said. He paused several times during his remarks, struggling to maintain his composure while addressing the media.
Ainda sobre polêmica, Raphinha falou sobre as críticas que recebeu.#Futebol #Seleçãobrasileira #Brasil #Raphinha pic.twitter.com/sOom0w1CkS
The forward has faced scrutiny following three injuries in the same leg area across the last three call-ups, a situation that has caused frustration within the Barcelona organization. He explained that his recent comments were intended to emphasize his desire to remain physically available for both his club and the national team, rather than an attempt to bypass international duties.
“From the first time I wore the national team jersey, I always made it very clear that I wanted to be here. I have never renounced the national team, I have always done everything in my power. It has always been an honor, a privilege, and nothing will change,” Raphinha said.
During the press conference, Raphinha wore a thick black bandage on his head. He clarified that the dressing was due to a minor ear procedure he underwent the day after the recent Clásico. He said that he opted to move the surgery forward to ensure he would be physically available for the current international window, despite the club’s preference for him to wait.
Addressing the public reaction to his previous statements about his workload and his communication with Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, Raphinha clarified the context of his words. He said his previous remarks intended to show why physical fitness is necessary for selection.
“What I meant is that the coach counts on me in good physical shape and available to represent Brazil. Unfortunately, when we are not in shape, we cannot play, neither here nor at the club. That was the intention of my statement. It was not about saying which games I should play and which I shouldn’t,” Raphinha said.
The player acknowledged that the intensity of the public criticism has taken a toll on him personally.
“It’s difficult for the criticism not to affect us. We are human beings and, as much as we try not to let it affect us, it’s normal, it’s natural. Anyone in my place, receiving so many attacks and knowing that they are giving the best of themselves, would feel affected,” he added.
Raphinha is expected to be part of the squad for Saturday’s match in Singapore. His involvement follows his decision to expedite his medical procedure to remain in contention for the national team roster.
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