Brazil received a significant squad boost ahead of their knockout match against Norway as Raphinha officially returned from a hamstring injury. However, coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that the Barcelona star is only fit enough to sit on the bench and could come on if necessary.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti brought good news to Brazil fans ahead of the clash with Norway in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup by confirming that Raphinha is eligible to play. Even so, the Italian strategist also emphasized that the Barcelona star has not yet reached his best physical condition and is unlikely to feature in the starting lineup.
Speaking before the match at MetLife Stadium, Ancelotti said that Raphinha’s recovery process is progressing very positively. He affirmed that the 29-year-old winger is ready to be on the substitute bench to support the national team when needed. Raphinha’s readiness level before the match against Norway is therefore becoming a focus of attention for the Brazil squad.
Raphinha’s return will significantly upgrade the Brazil national team’s attack. Coach Ancelotti said: “Raphinha is progressing very well. He is not at 100% fitness, but is ready to sit on the bench if the team needs him. He can come on to play a few minutes or appear at crucial moments.”
Raphinha had to be sidelined since June 19 after suffering a hamstring injury in the match against Haiti in the group stage. The injury caused him to miss two consecutive matches for Brazil against Scotland in the group stage and Japan in the round of 32. There was a time when experts worried the Barcelona star would have to say goodbye to the rest of the tournament, but his recovery speed exceeded expectations.
Coach Ancelotti also did not hide his satisfaction upon witnessing his disciple’s quick return. The former Real Madrid boss assesses Raphinha as one of the most important factors for the Selecao, and his timely comeback holds great significance in the decisive phase of the 2026 World Cup. He said: “He recovered very well and very quickly. We are very happy about that, because Raphinha is an extremely important player for the team.”
Midfielder Bruno Guimaraes also confirmed that his teammate has completely returned to training and is very eager to play. He stated: “He is ready and is training normally… Now let’s wait and see how coach Ancelotti will decide.” Even so, the Brazilian coaching staff will likely still manage Raphinha’s playing minutes due to lingering hamstring issues throughout the season. Barring any unexpected developments, the 29-year-old star will only be used for a short period against Norway, before aiming for peak fitness for a potential quarterfinal match against England or Mexico if Brazil advances.
