Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to call up Raphinha for Brazil has caused concern at Barcelona. Hansi Flick has now spoken out about the winger’s injury risk and long journey to Singapore.

Barcelona Raise Concerns Over Ancelotti’s Controversial Raphinha Decision

Barcelona have raised concerns after Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti included Raphinha in his squad for November’s international friendlies, despite the winger recently recovering from injury.

The 29-year-old was named in Brazil’s 26-man squad on October 29 for matches against Japan and Singapore.

However, the decision has worried Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who fears another injury could affect one of his most important players.

Barcelona worried about Raphinha’s injury risk

Raphinha suffered a muscle problem during Brazil’s previous international break in September and was forced to miss two Barcelona matches.

Although he has now returned to action, Barcelona remain concerned about his fitness.

The Brazilian winger faces a long journey to Singapore, where his national team will play two friendly matches.

Barcelona are particularly worried that the travel schedule and playing time could increase the risk of another injury.

Hansi Flick responds to Brazil’s controversial call-up

Speaking at a press conference on October 30, Flick admitted that Raphinha’s latest international call-up was not an ideal situation.

The Barcelona manager confirmed that he had discussed the issue with sporting director Deco.

Flick explained that travelling to Singapore and back was not ideal, especially after Raphinha’s recent injury problems.

He also expressed hope that Brazil would carefully manage the player’s minutes during the international break.

However, Flick acknowledged that Raphinha wants to represent his country and Barcelona cannot control the national team’s decision.

Ancelotti stands by his decision

Despite Barcelona’s concerns, Carlo Ancelotti has defended his approach to selecting Brazil’s squad.

The Italian coach explained that Brazil maintains good relationships with clubs but must choose the players considered important to the national team.

Raphinha remains an important part of Ancelotti’s plans as Brazil prepares for the coming years.

The winger is therefore still expected to join the national team for the November international break.

Raphinha faces busy November schedule

Brazil will face Japan on November 14 before playing Singapore on November 17. Both matches will take place at Singapore’s National Stadium.

Barcelona will be hoping their star winger returns without any fitness problems.

For now, Ancelotti has kept Raphinha in his squad, while Flick hopes Brazil will protect the player by managing his playing time carefully.