Barcelona star focusing on full fitness ahead of World Cup – “Ready to give my all”

Barcelona superstar Raphinha has made it clear that his focus remains on reaching peak condition as he continues his recovery journey and prepares for the World Cup with the Brazilian national team.

The 29-year-old attacker featured for the Selecao against Egypt in their 2-1 win and provided a sumptuous assist to Endrick for their second goal on the night.

After the game, he admitted that he was still on his way back to full sharpness.

Injury-ridden campaign

After a season that demanded a great deal physically, the Brazilian believes there is still room for improvement before he reaches his best level.

Speaking about his current condition, as quoted by FCB World, Raphinha said:

“I’m trying to prepare myself in the best possible way so that I always arrive at the national team and give my all, whether physically or tactically.”

“I suffered an injury that kept me off the pitches for a period slightly over a month.”

Raphinha in action vs Egypt. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images)

“But I was always striving to give my best during the treatment period and at the club, so that I could reach the national team in 100% physical condition.”

“I’m still working to reach my full physical readiness at 100%. And I believe that the minutes I played today were important for me, because they gave me more playing time and helped me regain the match feeling to a greater extent.”

Raphinha has become one of the most influential figures in Hansi Flick’s squad over the past couple of seasons but was unable to replicate his exploits from the 2024/25 season this time around.

This was mostly down to injury, as the Brazilian kept suffering from one muscle problem after another, limiting his continuity and impact on the team.

All eyes on World Cup glory

The winger was subsequently asked about his ambitions with Brazil. He revealed that there was one dream driving the team forward ahead of the marquee tournament.

Raphinha is keen on World Cup glory. (Photo by Ira L. Black/Getty Images)

He said: “The goal is one and it cannot be anything else. When you wear the Brazil national team jersey, your desire must be to win the World Cup.”

This kind of mentality does not come as a surprise to Barcelona fans. Raphinha is as driven an individual as anyone else in the squad and always turns up during the big games.

His hunger to contribute for his nation is obvious, and if Brazil envisage having a deep run in this tournament, there is no doubt that the Barcelona man will have to be one of their main contributors.