Carlo Ancelotti defends decision to call up Brazilian star for friendlies despite Barcelona concern

Carlo Ancelotti defends decision to call up Brazilian star for friendlies despite Barcelona concern It was reported recently that Barcelona are increasingly worried about the upcoming international break, particularly over the fitness of Raphinha. The Barcelona star, who has already had his fair share of troubles with injuries in the recent past, has been called up as part of the Brazil squad for friendlies against Japan and Singapore. Raphinha has been prey to injuries during the break in the past and ahead of a crucial juncture of the season, Barcelona fear another call-up puts him at grave risk. Carlo Ancelotti is not concerned Ancelotti wants Raphinha in the Brazil setup, even in friendlies. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) However, Carlo Ancelotti is having none of it. Addressing Joan Laporta’s recent frustration over the forward’s injury on the last international break, the Italian insisted relations with clubs remain healthy, but made clear he would not be dictated to. “We maintain good relationships with Brazilian clubs and with European clubs, with whom we share information about players. In general, this relationship is good,” he said. “We don’t have any specific requests, nor do we need them. During the FIFA dates, we will call up the players we consider important for the Brazilian national team,” he added firmly. Justifying Raphinha’s inclusion Ancelotti went on to explain why Raphinha remains central to his plans amid a wider rebuild following Brazil’s World Cup exit. Remaining injury-free will be a priority for Raphinha in next international break. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images) “We have started a renewal project and now is the ideal time to do it. In September, we began by evaluating younger players and now we continue doing so with these footballers who could be the future of the Selecao ,” he said (h/ t Diario SPORT ). “We have put together a balanced squad, but one that includes nine players of Olympic age and up to fifteen under 23 years old,” he added. The former Real Madrid boss stressed the need to retain a core of experience around the youngsters. “We’ve chosen five players who were at the last World Cup and who will be important for this new cycle in which we’ll compete in the Copa America and another World Cup. “ These players are Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Junior, and Raphinha ,” he concluded. This is far from ideal news for Barcelona, knowing Raphinha will have to travel long distances for the upcoming friendlies, potentially raising the risk of him picking up fatigue and potential injuries. Having lost back to back matches, Barcelona require Raphinha’s services now more than ever, as they look to once again build a solid gap to Real Madrid at the top of the league table.