Raphinha unlikely to start at weekend after Brazil travails
Raphinha made a strong case for himself in the recent match against Bolivia. The Barcelona player was included in Fernando Díniz's squad to cover for Vinicius's absence, and he certainly made the most of the opportunity. He contributed to a 5-1 victory with a goal and an assist, earning praise as one of the standout performers in the game played in Belem.
The winger is set to play again in the match against Peru, which takes place late at night in Lima. It's likely that the coach will give him another significant role after his impressive performance the other day. Raphinha has accumulated a lot of fatigue and travelled many kilometres due to his recent international duties. He is expected to return to the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper for training on Thursday.
It's worth noting that the match in Lima is scheduled for 21:00 local time. After the game, the team will return to Brazil, and Raphinha will spend a significant part of Wednesday on the return journey to Barcelona.
Considering the minutes he has played, potential jet lag, and the long journey, it seems unlikely that Raphinha will start the upcoming match against Real Betis. After serving a two-match suspension, he played only injury time against Osasuna, with Joao Félix, Ferran, and Lamine ahead of him in the pecking order. Xavi certainly values him (he started in the first two matchdays), but there is stiff competition, and Raphinha will have to earn his place in the lineup.
