Barcelona will push national team to release key forward earlier than the schedule | OneFootball

According to SPORT, Barcelona are working behind the scenes to bring back Raphinha earlier than planned from international duty with Brazil.

The winger has been called up for Brazil’s final South American qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia, even though the Selecao have already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil will face Chile on Thursday, September 4th, at the Maracana before travelling to El Alto on Tuesday, 9th, to play Bolivia.

While the game in Rio de Janeiro carries some prestige, the second fixture is of little sporting value, as Bolivia are already out of contention.

For Barcelona, however, this trip represents a big problem. Playing at an altitude of 4,150 metres is extremely demanding physically and could risk leaving Raphinha exhausted just as he is needed back in Spain.

Talks with CBF to protect the player

Barcelona are expected to open talks with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) in the hope of having Raphinha released after the match in Rio.

Barcelona want to protect Raphinha. (Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images)

The club’s objective is to avoid unnecessary risk and allow the forward to return early, skipping the demanding trip to Bolivia.

This would not only protect the player’s fitness but also ensure he is available and in top condition for Hansi Flick as the season enters a key stage.

The call-up itself has raised eyebrows in Barcelona, especially as this international break is viewed more as a test run for Carlo Ancelotti.

The Italian coach is not yet naming his final World Cup squad, making Raphinha’s involvement less crucial.

Looking ahead, October’s FIFA window could be even more testing, with Brazil scheduled to play South Korea in Seoul and Japan in Tokyo as part of their Asian tour.

With such long-distance travel, Barcelona will once again face the challenge of balancing international commitments with protecting one of their most important players.