Barcelona manager, Hansi Flick, has expressed frustration over Brazil’s decision to include Raphinha in their squad for the November international friendlies, raising concerns about the winger’s workload following his recent injury.
The Brazilian forward recently returned to action after recovering from a muscular problem that forced him to withdraw from national team duty in September.
Flick is keen to manage his playing time as Barcelona prepare for a demanding run of fixtures before the international break.
Barcelona face Alaves at home on Saturday before taking on Aston Villa in the UEFA Champions League and travelling to Atletico Madrid for a crucial LaLiga encounter.
However, Flick is concerned that another international assignment could affect Raphinha’s fitness, particularly given the long-distance travel involved in Brazil’s upcoming fixtures in Singapore.
Speaking about the situation, the German tactician revealed that he had discussed the matter with Barcelona sporting director Deco.
“I’ve spoken to Deco. He’s a very important player, and after the break from the last international window, he returned injured. It’s not the best situation.
“But that’s how things are, we can’t do anything about it. Rapha has the club in his heart, but if the national team calls him up, he wants to be there.
“Everyone wants to help the Brazil team. If we can manage his playing time, I’d be happy. It’s not ideal to go back and forth to Singapore. But it’s out of my hands.”
Brazil are scheduled to face Japan and Singapore in two international friendlies in Kallang on November 14 and 17 respectively.
The matches will require Raphinha to travel to Asia shortly after Barcelona’s demanding fixtures, leaving Flick hoping the forward returns without another injury setback.
