Raphinha is scheduled for examinations today to ascertain the extent of the hamstring ailment he sustained while representing Brazil in their match against France yesterday evening.
The wide player from Barcelona did not emerge for the latter half of the 2-1 loss to Les Bleus in Foxboro, a potentially troubling situation for the Catalan squad as they pursue trophies in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Brazil’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, stated: “Raphinha performed commendably, but then encountered an issue towards the close of the initial half, necessitating his substitution. He expressed some concern about a muscular strain, and I believe he will be assessed further tomorrow.”
The 29-year-old has experienced an inconsistent season with Barca, marked by diverse fitness issues, yet he has nonetheless tallied 19 goals and provided seven assists across 31 matches in all contests.
He is improbable to be jeopardized in Brazil’s subsequent fixture during this international window, facing Croatia on Tuesday. Furthermore, Barca anticipates his fitness and readiness for their journey to confront Atletico Madrid on April 4.
Raphinha and Real Madrid’s prominent player, Vinicius Jr, entered the France encounter in excellent condition but found it challenging to exert significant influence. This marks a consecutive streak of four matches wherein neither individual has found the net for their national side.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti remains relatively unconcerned, appending: “Raphinha displayed adept off-the-ball movements, and Vini consistently poses a threat. I am content with the performance because the squad contended fiercely, battling with effective plays… We are not obligated to be pleased with the outcome.”
Ancelotti declines involvement in Neymar discourse
A significant portion of the match’s anticipation revolved around Neymar’s non-appearance, as he was omitted from the squad due to Ancelotti’s lingering doubts about the attacker’s physical condition.
A few unenthusiastic shouts for the Santos player arose once France took a 2-0 lead, but Ancelotti declined to be pulled into the subject subsequent to the game.
He declared: ”Our focus should be on those present, who participated, who expended all their effort, who displayed their commitment, toiled diligently, and for whom I express my contentment.”
France secured victory, courtesy of strikes from Kylian Mbappe and Hugo Ekitike. Bremer scored for Brazil, yet they could not take advantage of the 55th-minute expulsion of Bayern Munich’s defender, Dayot Upamecano, following a transgression against Wesley.