Raphinha's comments on managing international minutes anger Brazil fans

Raphinha's comments about carefully managing his minutes with Brazil drew criticism from Brazilian fans, who saw them as putting Barcelona's interests ahead of international duty. According to the source, the player said he had discussed the matter with the coach in consideration of his physical condition.

The report links the controversy to a muscle injury Raphinha suffered after playing in Brazil's friendly matches in September, when he featured for more than 160 minutes. He then missed up to three weeks for Barcelona. Fans criticised his public remarks about managing his playing time, and some urged him to focus on his club if rest was his priority.

The source notes that Raphinha has not completed any of his last five matches for Barcelona and has scored three goals recently. It also says his tally this season is 19 goals and three assists in 13 matches, and analysts believe Brazil's coaching staff must balance making use of him with containing fans' anger.