Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotli has moved to allay fears from Barcelona and Real Madrid that their star players will be overworked during this international break.Barcas Raphinha was called up despite another injury-disrupted season while Madrid are also believed to be concerned that Vinicius Junior has had to travel to Asia for matches with Japan and Singapore.But Ancelotti, who understands the demands on players at La Ligas top clubs better than most after two spells in charge of Madrid, is adamant he wont take any risks.He said: The priority is always the players health. If youre at 100%, you train. If youre at 100%, you play. And in this aspect, we control the minutes they play.The clubs can be calm with the national team. The priority for everyone is the health of the athlete. We always want the athlete to return prepared to play and without injuries.Brazil period of experimentation is coming to an end AncelottiAncelotti has named experimental squads since Brazils World Cup elimination against Norway in the round of 16. But he says this period of trying new players will come to an end after these two games.Its a trial period that will end with this international break, he said. Next time, we will define the squad. It was a period that provided us with a lot of information about young players. We know now that we have very talented and committed young players, and that gives us confidence for the future. We have very high-level players. We have coverage in some positions, a little less in others, but we have time.While Ancelotti knows the Brazilian public have been patient over the past few months, he accepts results will be key as they start qualifying for the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup that follows.The Italian said: We are dedicating all our efforts to make this period a success. It is a transitional stage for the national team, a time for new players to emerge, and that is the work we have to do. Fans must remain calm, because we are going to form a very strong group of players for the future.Raphinha defends Brazil commitment after criticismBrazil take on Japan on Saturday before meeting Singapore on Tuesday.Raphinha and Vinicius are both expected to start against the Blue Samurai with the Barcelona man having to defend himself against accusations of a lack of commitment to his country after suggesting his minutes would need to be managed.Speaking to the media in Singapore on Friday, a visibly emotional Raphinha paused before saying: At that moment, when they asked me the question and I answered, I thought I was being clear in what I wanted to say; at least in my head it seemed to me that I was. Taking into account everything I have been through in the last three international call-ups, with three injuries practically in the same area of the leg, what I meant was, simply, that I had to take care of myself. Obviously, I dont want to get injured again. I want to be available not only for the national team, but also for Barcelona.The former Leeds man added: From the first time I put on the national team shirt I have always made my willingness to be here very clear. I never resigned from the Brazilian national team and I always did my best to be present. Sometimes, I havent been able to come, but Ive always done everything in my power to be here and wear the Seleao shirt. For me, it has always been an honour and a privilege, and always will be. Thats not going to change, regardless of how long Im here. Topics Brazil National Football Team Carlo Ancelotti FC Barcelona Raphinha Real Madrid CF Vinicius Junior If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Barcelona star Raphinha holds back tears as he defends his commitment to Brazil Jon Fisher 13th November, 2026 Japan v Brazil: Preview, expected line-ups and where to watch Jon Fisher 13th November, 2026 Former Real Madrid star Toni Kroos takes aim at Barcelona and claims they arent good enough defensively to win the Champions League Jon Fisher 11th November, 2026 Thibaut Courtois: I loved Xabi Alonso but Real Madrid needed Jose Mourinho Jon Fisher 11th November, 2026 Real Madrids forgotten man Endrick hints at January move despite Mourinho support Jon Fisher 10th November, 2026 Ballon dOr winner Kane overlooked as Messi named to FIFPro World XI for 18th time Jon Fisher 9th November, 2026
