Barcelona captain Raphinha has been on media duty ahead of Brazil’s upcoming friendlies against Japan and Singapore, opening up on his playing time and a recent decision to undergo surgery.
The forward became a little emotional at times while discussing his commitment to both club and country.
Raphinha explained his recent decision to bring forward surgery for an ear cyst so that he would be available for national team duty, as detailed in a report by Barca Blaugranes.
The Barcelona star revealed the procedure was just a small operation on the ear, noting it was nothing special or serious, simply to be able to be with the squad.
Raphinha went on to talk about just how important it is for him to play for the national team.
“From the first time I wore the national team jersey, I’ve always made it very clear that I wanted to be here,” Raphinha said, according to the source.
He added that he never gave up on the national team and always did everything in his power.
“It has always been an honor, a privilege, and nothing will change,” he continued, per the published text.
The forward also spoke about his recent injuries and comments regarding his game time that caused some controversy back in Brazil, which was previously noted by Barca Blaugranes.
“Taking into account everything I’ve been through in the last three call-ups, with three injuries in practically the same area of my leg, what I meant was, simply, that I had to take care of myself,” Raphinha explained, per the outlet.
He stated that he obviously does not want to get injured again and wants to be available for both Barcelona and the national team.
The captain is expected to skipper Brazil on Saturday when they play Japan in their first friendly of the international break.