Raphinha fights back tears after Brazil comments spark backlash

Raphinha became emotional and nearly cried as he defended his commitment to Brazil after comments made during the Barcelona forward’s contract renewal ceremony prompted widespread criticism.

The 29-year-old has extended his Barcelona contract until 2030 and said he had spoken to Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti about carefully managing his minutes during the current international break.

Brazil are due to play friendlies against Japan and Singapore, but Raphinha wanted to avoid suffering a fourth consecutive injury during an international window. His remarks were poorly received by many Brazil supporters, who criticised him after he joined the squad.

Raphinha had undergone minor surgery on his ear before linking up with the team. He said the procedure was not serious, but that he had made the effort to be available for Brazil.

Speaking at a news conference on Friday, he explained that his comments had been misunderstood.

“From the first time I wore the national-team shirt, I have always been clear about wanting to be here,” Raphinha said. “I have never given up on Brazil and I have always done everything I could to be here.

“Sometimes I have not been able to join the team, but I have always done everything possible to be here and wear the Brazil shirt. For me, it has always been an honour and a privilege, and it always will be. That will not change, regardless of how long I spend here.”

Raphinha said he had been referring to the physical problems he had experienced during Brazil’s three most recent camps, when he suffered about three injuries in the same area of his leg.

“When I was asked the question and answered it, I thought I had been clear about what I meant,” he said. “What I simply meant was that I need to look after myself.

“Obviously, I do not want to get injured again. I want to be available, not only for the national team but also for Barcelona.”

The forward said he would continue giving his best while physically capable of doing so, adding: “When I feel I am no longer able to perform at the required level physically, I will be the first to retire, because I am very self-critical.”

Raphinha also described being injured during the World Cup as “extremely frustrating” after he was unable to help Brazil avoid elimination by Norway.

“Personally, it was extremely frustrating. It was an important moment in my life and for the national team, but I did not feel 100% physically ready,” he said.

He had played only two matches for Barcelona after being injured against France during the previous international break before the World Cup. “When you are on the pitch, you do not think about the pain or physical problems; you want to give your best,” he added.

Brazil face Japan on Saturday, 14 November 2026. Raphinha expects a difficult contest, saying it would be similar to their World Cup meeting. “We are going through a generational change, but Brazil have players of a very high level. We have prepared extensively and had good training sessions,” he said.