Ancelotti confirms Raphinha muscle issue, as Barca make contact

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Raphinha was withdrawn at half-time during Thursday’s 2-1 defeat to France due to a muscle issue.

Raphinha was replaced by Luiz Henrique after a promising opening 45 minutes in the United States. The former Leeds United forward is now a huge doubt for the remainder of the international break, as Barcelona medical team stay alert.

The Barcelona playmaker started the game and showed why he has become an important player in the squad. However, he failed to emerge for the second half, and his absence was felt as a 10-man France side held onto their lead.

RAPHINHA during friendly match between Brazil and France at Gillette Stadium. (Photo by Icon Sport)

Speaking after the game, Ancelotti told reporters: “I think Raphinha played very well. He had some muscle discomfort at the end of the first half and we had to substitute him, but he had many opportunities and very good movement off the ball. And Vini always tries; he always makes the difference. A striker cannot always score, but the work done by both of them was good.”

Report from Mundo Deportivo also claim Barcelona medical staff made contact with Raphinha and are seriously concerned that he has sustained an injury that may rule him out for a period.

Brazil will travel to Orlando to face Croatia on Tuesday, with Raphinha’s participation a significant doubt.