Raphinha clarifies Brazil minutes remarks: 'always available'

Raphinha, of FC Barcelona, has responded to the criticism he received in Brazil over his comments on managing his minutes with the national team. According to Europa Press, the winger said this Friday that he has always done all he could to play for Brazil and that he only meant he had to look after his physical condition.

The player has suffered three consecutive injuries in the same area of his leg during recent national team camps and admits the criticism has affected him. He wants to be available for both Brazil and Barça, and says that if his body no longer lets him perform, he will be the first to step away.

The controversy follows his contract renewal until 2030 last week, when he said he was not yet fully recovered and that Carlo Ancelotti was aware of the situation for managing his minutes.