Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti fires back at Joan Laporta as fresh club vs country row erupts over Barcelona star Raphinha
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has selected Barcelona's Raphinha for upcoming international friendlies despite concerns from the club regarding the player's recent injury. The decision has caused friction between Barcelona and the Brazilian football federation, with Ancelotti asserting his authority over national team selection.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing tension between international football governing bodies and professional clubs over player welfare and the international match calendar.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has ignored complaints from Barcelona president Joan Laporta by selecting Raphinha for the Selecao’s upcoming friendly matches in Asia. The decision has sparked a fresh dispute between the Catalan club and the Brazilian football federation following the forward's recent injury struggles.
The Italian tactician confirmed on Thursday that the 29-year-old will be part of the squad travelling to Singapore for two international friendlies against Japan and the host. This call-up comes despite Raphinha only recently returning to action after suffering a muscular injury during the previous international break in Australia. The logistics of the trip have caused significant anxiety at the Spotify Camp Nou, with the round trip to Singapore covering nearly 22,000 kilometres. Barcelona president Joan Laporta had previously voiced his frustration, suggesting that clubs are unfairly penalised by the demanding international calendar.
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