Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has sought to ease concerns from Real Madrid and Barcelona regarding the physical workload of their key players during the current international break. Both La Liga clubs expressed apprehension about their stars traveling to Asia for matches against Japan and Singapore during a crucial stage of the domestic campaign.
Player Health and Squad Selection
Barcelona forward Raphinha received a call-up despite experiencing an injury-disrupted season, while Real Madrid harbored concerns over the extensive travel required for Vinicius Junior. Having previously managed Real Madrid across two separate tenures, Ancelotti stated that player welfare remains the primary focus and assured club managers that playing time will be carefully monitored.
“The priority is always the player’s health. If you’re at 100%, you train. If you’re at 100%, you play. And in this aspect, we control the minutes they play. The clubs can be calm with the national team. The priority for everyone is the health of the athlete. We always want the athlete to return prepared to play and without injuries,” Ancelotti said.
Ancelotti also confirmed that Brazil’s trial period for new talent will conclude following these two fixture commitments. The national team has evaluated several young players since being eliminated by Norway in the round of 16 at the World Cup. According to the Italian manager, the technical staff now possesses sufficient data to solidify the core squad ahead of upcoming qualification matches for the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup.
Raphinha Addresses Commitment Criticism
Brazil are scheduled to play Japan on Saturday before traveling to face Singapore on Tuesday, with both Raphinha and Vinicius Junior expected to feature in the opening match. Speaking to reporters in Singapore on Friday, an emotional Raphinha defended himself against accusations that he lacked dedication to the national team after previously suggesting his playing time required careful management.
The former Leeds United winger explained that his remarks were strictly intended to protect his physical condition after sustaining three separate injuries in the same area of his leg during his previous three international call-ups. He emphasized that maintaining his fitness is vital for both Brazil and Barcelona.
“From the first time I put on the national team shirt I have always made my willingness to be here very clear. I never resigned from the Brazilian national team and I always did my best to be present. Sometimes, I haven’t been able to come, but I’ve always done everything in my power to be here and wear the Seleçao shirt. For me, it has always been an honour and a privilege, and always will be. That’s not going to change, regardless of how long I’m here,” Raphinha said.
