Brazil legend Cafu has leapt to the defence of Raphinha following criticism of the Barcelona star after he picked up an injury while playing in a friendly for the Selecao against France in the United States.
Raphinha was subsequently ruled out for five weeks and missed the two Champions League quarter-final ties against Atletico as Barca were knocked out of the competition.
However, Cafu says that Raphinha had no choice but to give his all after being called up by his national team ahead of World Cup
2026.
“If Brazil calls you up, you have to give 100%. Because a World Cup is only eight matches now. You have to give your best,” he told Spoty.
“Just eight matches to make history in world football. There are two ways to go through a World Cup: as just another player who was there, or as a champion. And the difference is huge. Raphinha has the chance to make history as a world champion. To do so, he will have to dedicate himself body and soul to the Seleção.”
Cafu was then quizzed further on whether the situation could have been handled better and insisted Raphinha’s injury could have happened at any time.
“No, that doesn’t exist. It’s our profession. You’re not going to go onto the field against France and not compete,” he added.
“It’s impossible to play at half speed. You’re going to play. You’re going to want to prove yourself. You’re going to play at 100%. Anything else is deception. Injury is inherent to our game. It can happen at any time: in training, at home, or playing against France.”
Raphinha is currently still sidelined but the hope is that he could return to action in time for El Clasico in May.
