CricBengal.com | Sports Desk
Barcelona winger Raphinha will captain Brazil in their international friendly against Japan on November 14 in Singapore. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has handed him the armband in the absence of regular captain Marquinhos, who has been ruled out through injury.
The match will take place at the Singapore National Stadium as part of Brazil’s final international fixtures of 2026.
According to Brazilian media reports, the coaching staff considered several established leaders, including Vinicius Junior, Bruno Guimaraes and Gabriel Magalhaes. However, Ancelotti decided to maintain the leadership hierarchy established during the previous international break and selected Raphinha.
Marquinhos Ruled Out Through Injury
Marquinhos sustained a muscle injury while playing for Paris Saint-Germain against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League. The injury has forced the defender to miss Brazil’s November fixtures.
With the regular captain unavailable, Raphinha will take responsibility for leading the national team against Japan.
The Barcelona forward has previous experience captaining Brazil. Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly next in the leadership order when Raphinha is not on the pitch.
Raphinha’s Growing Leadership Role
Raphinha’s appointment reflects his growing influence within the Brazil squad. His leadership role at Barcelona and his conduct within the national team were among the factors considered by Ancelotti and his coaching staff.
The forward has also enjoyed an impressive campaign for Barcelona. He has scored 19 goals across competitions this season, although injuries have affected his availability at different stages.
Barcelona are monitoring his workload during the international break. Reports indicate that the club and Brazil are coordinating to manage his playing time and reduce the risk of further injury.
As a result, even if Raphinha starts against Japan, he may not necessarily play the full 90 minutes.
Brazil’s Final Fixtures of 2026
Brazil will face Japan on November 14 before taking on hosts Singapore on November 17. Both matches will be played at the Singapore National Stadium.
The fixtures will bring Brazil’s international schedule for 2026 to a close. Paraguay are also participating in the four-team international series.
For Raphinha, the Japan match will provide another opportunity to demonstrate his leadership qualities while representing the national team.
CricBengal Analysis
Ancelotti’s decision to appoint Raphinha reflects the forward’s growing standing within the Brazil squad. His experience at Barcelona and previous leadership responsibilities for the national team make him a logical choice in Marquinhos’ absence.
His performance as captain against Japan will be an important opportunity to show what he can contribute beyond his attacking qualities.
CricBengal/BH