Barcelona could face another anxious call over Raphinha’s international future, with Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti preparing to announce his squad for November’s friendlies just weeks after the winger suffered an injury on international duty.
According to SPORT, the Brazilian captain could be called up again despite only recently receiving medical clearance.
Ancelotti will announce his selection on October 29, ahead of Brazil’s fixtures against Japan and Singapore on November 14 and 17 respectively.
Both matches will take place at the National Stadium of Singapore, meaning Raphinha could soon be travelling to the other side of the globe again with the national team after his latest recovery.
For Hansi Flick, the timing is understandably an unwelcome concern.
This is because Barcelona have just welcomed one of their most influential attackers back into the squad, and another international commitment could interrupt his return to full match fitness.
Raphinha’s Brazil return could be a concern for Barcelona
Ancelotti is once again considering calling Raphinha for Singapore friendlies. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images)
Raphinha suffered a muscle injury while representing Brazil in Brisbane during their second consecutive friendly against Australia.
He was forced off at half-time, although Brazil eventually won 4-2 and the Barcelona winger scored from the penalty spot.
The injury proved costly for Flick, who could not call upon his captain for Barcelona’s 3-0 La Liga victory over Getafe or their 4-1 Champions League win against Galatasaray in Istanbul.
Raphinha has since received medical clearance and returned to Barcelona’s squad for the meeting with Real Betis.
His recovery is a significant boost for Flick, but the possibility of another Brazil call-up raises questions about how much time the winger will have to regain his rhythm before the next international break.
Ancelotti prepares Brazil squad for Singapore friendlies
The Brazilian Football Confederation has confirmed that Ancelotti will announce his next squad on October 29.
Brazil are scheduled to face Japan on November 14 before taking on Singapore three days later.
The outlet has therefore criticised the sporting value of Brazil’s previous tour, which included two meetings with Australia and a trip to Calcutta to face India.
Beyond assessing emerging players for the country’s Olympic project, the report suggests the fixtures offered limited conclusions for Ancelotti following the 2026 World Cup.
Barcelona await Raphinha’s next international decision
Raphinha’s importance to Flick’s attacking system makes his availability a major consideration.
Although Barcelona have fared well in his absence so far, the winger’s absence is still a major loss for Flick.
Brazil’s squad announcement will clarify whether Raphinha is included for the November fixtures, and if he is indeed in the squad, Barcelona will have to be in constant communication with CBF over his playing time.