Barcelona have been left sweating over the fitness of Raphinha after the winger suffered a worrying injury blow while representing Brazil. The Catalan giants are reportedly livid with how the Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti has managed their star man's workload during a busy international window.
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior has candidly addressed his recent drop in form, admitting that he is currently battling a lack of confidence on both the domestic and international stages. The Brazilian forward, usually so clinical and flamboyant, has found goals hard to come by lately as he continues to process the emotional fallout of a disappointing World Cup this summer.
Barcelona forward Raphinha has been withdrawn from the Brazil squad ahead of Saturday's friendly meeting with India after sustaining a muscle problem. The Selecao captain converted a penalty in Tuesday's 4-2 triumph over Australia before being withdrawn at the interval, with tests confirming swelling in his troublesome right thigh.
Carlo Ancelotti has thrown his full support behind Vinicius Junior following Brazil’s hard-fought victory over Australia, insisting the winger remains a cornerstone of the national team despite his recent struggles. The Selecao boss spoke out after a thrilling encounter that was somewhat overshadowed by a fitness concern for Barcelona’s Raphinha, who was forced off at the interval.
Brazil overcame a spirited Australian fightback to secure a 4-2 victory in a thrilling international friendly. Despite conceding twice in four minutes during the first half, the Selecao's individual quality eventually overwhelmed the Socceroos.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly preparing to overhaul his tactical approach by following a successful blueprint established at Barcelona. The Selecao boss is looking to maximise the output of Raphinha by shifting him into a more central attacking role during the current international break.
Vikingur Olafsvik
