Barcelona winger Raphinha’s status in the Brazilian national team has continued to rise, with the forward set to wear the captain’s armband in their upcoming friendly against Japan, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Barcelona will be hoping Raphinha returns from the international break without injury, while the player continues to strengthen his standing in the national team. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has selected the Barcelona star to lead the “Seleção” in Saturday’s friendly against Japan in Singapore, scheduled for 11:15 Beijing Time (CET).
Raphinha’s appointment comes after Brazil captain Marquinhos sustained an injury in the previous match against Barcelona. The defender, who has served as the national team’s captain since 2021 and has earned 112 international appearances, will miss the encounter.
Although this is not Raphinha’s first time captaining Brazil, as he previously led the team in one of their two friendly matches against Australia, the latest decision further highlights his growing influence.
The coaching staff reportedly considered rotating established leaders such as Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Junior and Gabriel Magalhães before settling on the Barcelona forward.
Under the team’s internal leadership arrangement, Arsenal midfielder Guimaraes will take over the armband whenever Raphinha is not on the pitch.
The decision to hand the number 10 shirt wearer the captaincy reflects his performances for Brazil and recognises the leadership qualities he has demonstrated at Barcelona.