Gabriel Magalhaes defends Barcelona star Raphinha over Brazil statements: ‘Many misinterpreted what he said’

Gabriel Magalhaes defends Barcelona star Raphinha over Brazil statements: ‘Many misinterpreted what he said’ Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has publicly defended Barcelona winger Raphinha following criticism of his recent comments about managing his playing time with the Brazilian national team.  Speaking at a press conference in Singapore on Wednesday, the centre-back insisted that his teammate’s words had been misunderstood and emphasised his commitment to representing Brazil. Raphinha attracted criticism after explaining that Carlo Ancelotti understood the need to manage his minutes because he was still recovering from an injury.  The Barcelona forward had stressed that he was not yet fully fit and wanted the national team coach to take his physical condition into consideration. “The national team coach will know how to manage my playing time. We’ve spoken, and he knows I’m not yet at 100% fitness.  “I ask Barcelona fans not to worry about this,” said Raphinha during his contract renewal ceremony. Gabriel Magalhaes insists Raphinha was misunderstood Raphinha was criticised for his statement on national team coach Carlo Ancelotti. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) Gabriel, who also has experience dealing with injuries during international duty, believes the reaction to Raphinha’s comments was misplaced.  The Arsenal defender explained that professional footballers cannot always maintain the same physical and mental intensity throughout a demanding calendar. “We are high-level players, and what we always want is to play. I think many misinterpreted what Raphinha said. We are human, and sometimes we need to rest, even mentally. “In Europe, we play every two or three days, and there are many matches.  “When we join the national team, we want to make the most of our time here and learn, but many misinterpret some statements, and that’s what happened with Raphinha,” he explained. Brazil dressing room backs Barcelona winger Gabriel Magalhaes has defended Raphinha. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images) Gabriel also made it clear that Raphinha’s comments had not created any concern within the Brazilian dressing room.  Instead, he highlighted the Barcelona forward’s dedication and importance to the national team. “Within the group, we didn’t understand his words to mean that he came here to rest or anything like that.  “We know his dedication to the national team well; his commitment is exemplary, and he is an ideal player for us.” The discussion comes as Brazil prepare for two friendlies in Singapore , facing Japan on November 14 before meeting the hosts three days later. Source: Mundo Deportivo