Barcelona star Raphinha has reflected on Brazil’s exit from World Cup 2026 after seeing their dreams ended in the last 16 by Norway.
Raphinha only played twice at the World Cup due to injury and says the early exit from the competition is a painful one to take.
“It is a great pain that we have not reached where we dreamed of together, you and us. Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out how we imagined. It’s part of the sport. The defeat won’t always be what we want, but the pride of representing Brazil and of fighting
to the end will never be erased. And for all our children who cry with us today, don’t give up on your dreams. Perhaps you have watched this Cup imagining what it would be like to be there one day. Keep that dream in your heart,” he wrote on Instagram.
“You are our next generation. Keep believing, training, persevering and loving football. It’s dreams that Brazil has always lived, and it will be the dreams of you that will continue to write the history of our national team. I am honored to be Brazilian and to be part of this selection. Wearing this shirt and representing our country is a privilege that I will take with me forever. Regardless of the outcome, being part of this story is something I am extremely proud of.”
Raphinha will now enjoy a break before returning to pre-season with Barcelona. The Catalans will be hoping that the forward can put his injury problems behind in 2026-27 and rediscover the inspirational form that has seen him become of the best players in the world during his time at Camp Nou.
