US Edition“I was practically ready to go” - Barcelona’s Raphinha opens up on almost switching nationality from Brazil to surprise European powerhouse
- In 2020, Barcelona winger Raphinha turned down Italy's offer to join their national team despite being eligible through his Italian father.
- Italy expressed interest in having Raphinha join their squad for the Euro tournament, but his Italian citizenship documents were not finalized in time for the team’s final roster submission.
- Raphinha opted to hold out for a spot with Brazil, making his international debut in October 2021 and accumulating 33 appearances since then.
- He revealed he was nearly ready to join Italy and said, "I was supposed to go to the Euro they won in 2020," but kept a slim hope for Brazil.
- Raphinha’s commitment to Brazil positions him as a key player for both Barcelona’s successful season and Brazil’s 2026 World Cup challenge.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Rafhinha says that Brazil almost changed by Italy: “The passport has not arrived”
In the brigade by the Gold Ball and one of the main hopes of the Brazilian Selection in the 2026 World Cup, Rafhinha revealed that she almost changed Brazil to play by Italy. Craque of Barcelona, the attacker, of 28 years, said that it was expected that he would integrate the delegation that won the 2020 Eurocopa. "I was ready to accept the call for the Italian election. I should go to Eurocopa, which they won in 2020. I was practically ready to…
Raphinha reveals 'real reason' for turning down the chance to represent Italy
Barcelona winger Raphinha turned down an opportunity to play for the Italian national team in 2020, believing he would eventually earn a call-up from Brazil. Despite being approached by Italy due to his Italian heritage and the potential to participate in the European Championship, he chose to wait. Raphinha made his debut for the Brazilian national team in October 2021. Currently, he is performing exceptionally well, contributing to Barcelona's…
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