Phoenix 24
An international suspension creates an unexpected club-country dispute.
SINGAPORE. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has decided to keep Barcelona forward Raphinha with the national team despite his suspension from the upcoming friendly against Singapore. The decision follows his dismissal during Brazil’s 3-2 defeat to Japan on November 14 and has renewed concerns over player management during the international break.
Raphinha played approximately 70 minutes before being substituted by Endrick. However, the Barcelona attacker received a red card while on the bench after protesting the refereeing decision preceding Japan’s winning goal, scored by Tatsuhiro Sakamoto in stoppage time.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti was also dismissed during the confrontation, leaving both the manager and the winger suspended for the next friendly.
Under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, a dismissal in an international friendly generally results in a suspension served during the national team’s next friendly match. Consequently, Raphinha will be unavailable against Singapore on November 17.
The suspension initially raised expectations that Barcelona could recover its player ahead of schedule, allowing him to return to training under Hansi Flick before the club’s next domestic fixture.
However, CBF executive Rodrigo Caetano confirmed that the federation intends to retain the attacker throughout the international window, emphasizing his importance within Brazil’s leadership group.
Caetano’s position reflects the federation’s interest in maintaining squad cohesion despite the player’s inability to participate in the final match.
The decision is particularly sensitive because of Raphinha’s recent injury history. The winger has experienced repeated muscular problems during previous international periods, prompting concern within Barcelona about his physical workload and recovery.
Earlier in the week, Raphinha rejected suggestions that he had attempted to choose which international matches to play. He explained that discussions with Ancelotti concerned responsible management of his physical condition rather than a lack of commitment to Brazil.
Ancelotti also defended the importance of protecting players’ health, emphasizing that national team