There was a lot of anger within the Barcelona fanbase when Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti decided to call up Raphinha for their matches in the current international break, but opted to leave out the Real Madrid trio of Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Eder Militao.
It was claimed that the Italian tactician, who was in charge of Real Madrid before taking over the reins for the Selecao, was showing favouritism towards his former club, saving their players from a gruelling travel schedule, but did not spare Raphinha.
Raphinha a leader in Ancelotti’s project
But, now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Raphinha is seen as one of the fundamental pieces and leaders of the Brazilian national team under Ancelotti.
The Selecao thrashed Chile 3-0 last night with goals coming from Estavao Willian, Lucas Paqueta, and Bruno Guimaraes.
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - SEPTEMBER 04: Lucas Paqueta of Brazil celebrates after scoring the team's second goal with teammate
Raphinha during the South American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Brazil and Chile at Maracana Stadium on September 04, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Raphinha a leader of the new-look Brazil team. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
However, Raphinha put in a very strong performance, especially in the first half, when he led Brazil’s attack with impressive intensity, creating danger both inside and out wide, linking with his teammates, and posing a threat from set-pieces as well.
Raphinha played 79 minutes for Brazil against Chile before being replaced by Richarlison, playing a part in his team’s opening goal.
In the 37th minute, the Barcelona winger’s cross was repelled by the Chile goalkeeper, only for the rebound to fall to Estevao, who converted to make it 1-0.
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 around the corner, Raphinha has seemingly taken up an important role in Ancelotti’s new-look Brazil side, leading the team by example on the pitch with his work rate, intensity, and mentality.