The 2026 FIFA World Cup is drawing closer, and several Barcelona stars are now beginning to shift focus from club football to the biggest stage in the sport.
After another successful domestic campaign, a number of players from Hansi Flick’s squad are expected to feature prominently for their national teams in North America.
For Barcelona, international tournaments also offer another chance for key players to raise their status globally after strong club seasons.
One of those players has now officially been handed that opportunity again.
Raphinha receives Brazil call up
Raphinha has been included in Brazil’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, confirmed by new national team boss Carlo Ancelotti, and announced on their website.
It will be the winger’s second appearance at a World Cup, having previously represented Brazil at the 2022 tournament in Qatar shortly after his move to Barcelona.
That campaign ended in disappointment when Brazil were knocked out by Croatia in the quarter-finals, despite entering the competition as one of the favourites.
This time, expectations are even higher under Ancelotti, with Brazil once again viewed as one of the strongest contenders to lift the trophy.
They have been drawn into Group C alongside Morocco, Scotland and Haiti.
Raphinha heads into the tournament after another influential season in Barcelona colours, despite dealing with recurring physical issues during parts of the campaign.
The Brazilian has still managed to deliver impressive numbers, scoring 21 goals and registering eight assists in 33 appearances, with one match still left to play.
His contribution proved vital in helping Barcelona secure both the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup, strengthening his role as one of Flick’s most dependable attackers.
The 29-year-old has undergone a major transformation since arriving at Camp Nou, going from a signing questioned by sections of supporters to becoming one of the side’s most consistent attacking threats.
However, the World Cup now presents an even bigger platform.
At this stage of his career, Raphinha enters the tournament carrying far more experience and responsibility than he did four years ago.
For Barcelona, that could be significant, as another strong international showing would only further elevate one of the club’s most important attacking players heading into next season.
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