After a report by Barca Universal on Saturday October 17, 2026, which indicated that Barcelona could be presented with a new problem with Raphinha, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti is reported to be considering the winger for inclusion in November’s international friendlies. This comes as the forward has just recovered from a muscle injury.

The news has concerned Hansi Flick, who has just regained the services of the Barcelona captain.

According to Barca Universal, Ancelotti is expected to make his announcement on October 29 as he prepares his squad for the matches against Japan and Singapore. Brazil will host the matches on the 14th and 17th of the month at the National Stadium in Singapore.

Raphinha would have to travel long distances once more after his injury layoff. The Brazilian international suffered the injury while playing for his nation in Brisbane during their second friendly match against Australia.

He was subbed off at half-time after scoring a penalty, but the hosts were still victorious with a 4-2 margin.

His absence was keenly felt in the Catalan Camp Nou as Hansi Flick had to contend with a 3-0 La Liga defeat against Getafe and a 4-1 Champions League defeat against Galatasaray in Istanbul. Raphinha has since been declared fit and joined Barcelona’s squad for their encounter against Real Betis.

The winger’s inclusion in the squad provides a great relief to Flick as he hopes the forward will find his game rhythm and fitness levels without further breaks.

However, the friendlies Ancelotti has in hand might disrupt the players’ preparations, especially since Raphinha is expected to play a pivotal role in the attack.

Brazil’s impending matches against Singapore and Japan have sparked controversy about the nature of the South American national team’s tour. They had already played two matches against the Socceroos and one against India in Calcutta.

The report highlights Ancelotti’s lack of competition as the manager fails to see beyond the friendlies. Ancelotti cannot deny the fact that he has little to gain from these matches, except for identifying young talents for the Olympic Games that will start next year.

In his quest to win the Ballon d’Or, Raphinha will be eager to showcase his skills to Ancelotti once the squad list is unveiled.

If chosen, the Catalan club will have to keep regular contact with the Brazilian Football Confederation about the player’s activities, and the extent of his participation in the matches.