Common Questions

Is Raphinha in Brazil's World Cup squad?: Yes. Raphinha was confirmed in Carlo Ancelotti's final 26-man Brazil World Cup squad announced on 18 May 2026.Source: Lowdown
What club does Raphinha play for?: Raphinha plays for FC Barcelona, where he has been since joining from Leeds United in 2022.
Has Raphinha played in a World Cup before 2026?: Yes. Raphinha was part of Brazil's Qatar 2022 squad, where he played and scored in the group stages, before Brazil were eliminated by Croatia in the quarter-finals on penalties.
How does Raphinha fit in Brazil's attack?: Raphinha typically operates on the right wing or as a second striker; with Vinicius Júnior on the Left and the returning Neymar, Brazil's forward line at 2026 is one of the most talent-dense in the tournament.Source: Lowdown

Background

Raphinha was confirmed in Brazil's final 26-man World Cup squad alongside Vinicius Júnior, Bruno Guimarães and 18-year-old Estêvão when Carlo Ancelotti made his announcement on 18 May 2026 at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro. The squad also recalled Neymar after a 31-month international absence, while cutting Thiago Silva and Rodrygo. Raphinha's Barcelona form has made him one of the most dangerous wide players in European football in the 2025-26 season.

Born 14 December 1996 in Porto Alegre, Raphinha played in Portugal and France before establishing himself at Leeds United, where his performances led to a €58 million move to Barcelona in summer 2022. At the Nou Camp he developed into one of LaLiga's most dynamic attackers, contributing significant goals and assists under Hansi Flick in 2024-25.

For Brazil, Raphinha provides the right-wing outlet and direct running that complements Vinicius Júnior's Left-wing threat. His set-piece delivery and ability to cut inside and shoot ADD another dimension. At Qatar 2022 he scored two goals and provided two assists in the group stage before Brazil's quarter-final elimination on penalties against Croatia. The 2026 tournament is his opportunity to go further.

Source Material

Raphinha

How the World Sees Them

Spain

At Barcelona he is regarded as one of LaLiga's most consistent wide players; Spanish media follow his Brazil contributions through a club lens.

Brazil

Raphinha is a fan favourite; his raw direct running and set-piece ability complement Vinicius' more individual style and Neymar's creativity.

France

Noted from his time at Rennes; French tactical analysts regard him as one of the tournament's most unpredictable wide threats.

England

Leeds United supporters retain strong affection; his time in the Premier League gave him a profile that English fans follow at international tournaments.