Carlo Ancelotti offered a positive update on Raphinha ahead of Brazil’s last 16 World Cup tie against Norway.
The Barcelona superstar was injured against Haiti in an aggravation of a hamstring issue that ruined his club season.
As such, there were concerns his tournament was over.
Reports claimed he would be back for the quarter-finals, but Ancelotti says he’ll be an option against Norway.
Raphinha injury update
“Raphinha is progressing very well,” the Italian said.
“He’s not 100%, but he can be available on the bench and play a few minutes or be useful at certain times.
“He recovered very well and very quickly, we are happy with that because Raphinha is very important to the team.
“It’s very important because we have really different players on the bench. We always have to keep in mind that the game doesn’t end in the 90th minute.
“The game might go to extra time, and fresh players can change the game.”
Dealing with Paqueta’s absence
Ancelotti also discussed his plans to work around Lucas Paqueta’s injury, with the Flamengo man’s tournament almost certainly over.
“We don’t have a player like Paquetá,” he said. “Danilo is different, Martinelli is a winger, so… I have time to think.
“As they always say, I’ve already thought about it, I’ve already resolved the issue. At times like these, only confidence matters.
“We don’t have players in the squad with the quality of Lucas Paquetá. We have to replace him with other players.
“Danilo is different from Gabriel, who is different from Cunha, who is different from Éderson.
“We will take into account what is best for the team, knowing the strengths of the opponent.”
Asked what Paqueta’s replacement requires, he added: “Defensively, someone who can track back on the left when the team doesn’t have the ball.
“When the team didn’t have the ball, Paquetá did that. Martinelli and Danilo can do that.
“With the ball, they have to occupy the position between the center and the left well.
“This position can sometimes be occupied by Danilo Santos or Vini Jr. Offensively, it doesn’t change.
“The player’s interpretation changes depending on their characteristics. Danilo is different from Martinelli.”
Leave a Reply