Raphinha returns to Brazil but Rayan causes Ancelotti pain of choice

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has received a timely boost ahead of Sunday’s World Cup round of 16 tie against Norway, with Raphinha returning to full training after recovering from a hamstring injury. The Barcelona winger now appears available for selection, but his comeback has created an unexpected dilemma rather than providing a straightforward solution.

The 28-year-old trained normally with the team on Friday during Brazil’s penultimate training session before the elimination battle in New Jersey and took part in training after completing his rehabilitation programme. Raphinha missed Brazil’s wins over Scotland and Japan after suffering a grade 1 right hamstring strain during the group stage win against Haiti. Raphinha has returned to full training with Brazil. (Photo: Reuters)

But his return comes at a time when Brazil may already have found an unlikely hero.

Rayan, a 19-year-old winger who replaced Raphinha against Haiti, grabbed his opportunity with both hands and produced energetic displays that quickly established him as one of Brazil’s standout players at the tournament. His relentless pressing, fearless running and willingness to do the dirty work helped Brazil score key goals against Scotland and in a dramatic late comeback win over Japan that sealed qualification for the knockout stages.

With Neymar also back in contention after overcoming his own fitness concerns, Ancelotti suddenly has more attacking options than problems.

WHO STARTS AGAINST NORSU?

On paper, Raphinha would normally go straight back into Brazil’s starting XI.

Before his injury, he was one of Ancelotti’s trusted forwards, combining his pace, creativity and experience with the defensive discipline required of Brazil’s wide forwards. However, since the Barcelona star’s absence due to injury, Rayan has also done exactly that. Will Ancelotti stick with Rayan for the Norway match? (Photo: Reuters)

His direct running stretched the opposition defence, while his pressing from the front gave Brazil a different dimension without the ball. More importantly, his impact has translated into results, with the teenager playing a significant role in two decisive victories during Raphinh’s absence.

Ancelotti thus leaves a balance between experience and form ahead of one of Brazil’s biggest games of the tournament.

Raphinha certainly has pedigree. The Barcelona winger has enjoyed another impressive club season and has become a regular part of Brazil’s attack. But after missing two weeks of football and returning from another setback with paralysis, the coaching staff may be reluctant to throw him right back into a high-intensity playoff game.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

04 Jul 2026 03:56 IST