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According to a report published by Barca Universal on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Barcelona are concerned that Raphinha may receive a call-up to Brazil's squad for their upcoming November friendlies against Japan and Singapore, a development that could complicate his rehabilitation.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly considering the Barcelona winger for the two fixtures, even though the player is still working to regain his full fitness.
Raphinha has found it difficult to return to his previous level since picking up an injury during Brazil's encounter with Australia in Brisbane on September 29. While he has already resumed playing, the forward recently acknowledged that he has yet to reach his best physical condition.
Ancelotti is expected to reveal his squad on Thursday, with Brazil scheduled to play Japan on November 14 and Singapore three days later.
If selected, Raphinha would face a journey of approximately 11,000 kilometres from Barcelona to Asia. Such extensive travel could place additional demands on his body while he continues his recovery.
Barcelona would rather keep the attacker at the club until he is completely fit. His significant contribution to the team's attacking play means another injury could represent a considerable setback for the Spanish giants.
SPORT reports that Barcelona may approach Ancelotti or representatives of the Brazilian Football Confederation in an attempt to secure Raphinha's exclusion from the squad. Nevertheless, the winger could still be called up if negotiations fail to produce an agreement.
The situation differs for players featuring in Brazil's domestic league. With just four Brasileirao rounds left after the international break, the Brazilian federation has reportedly agreed to leave out players whose clubs are competing for the championship or struggling to avoid relegation.
While this decision offers domestic clubs a degree of protection, Barcelona do not have the same assurance regarding their Brazilian forward.
Raphinha's previous experiences with injuries while representing Brazil have also contributed to the club's fears. According to reports, he has suffered an injury after each of his last three international call-ups.
A previous setback during a March international break kept him out of action for five weeks. His absence coincided with Barcelona's exits from the Copa del Rey and Champions League at the hands of Atletico Madrid.
His injury during the 2026 World Cup, followed by the latest problem against Australia, has only increased Barcelona's concerns about his international commitments. The club will be eager to prevent another interruption and give the winger the best possible opportunity to recover his fitness and rediscover his top form.