Raphinha could very well have worn the Nazional jersey. This is said by the Brazilian international in a recent interview with journalist Isabela Pagliari.
Born on December 14, 1996 in Porto Alegre, the right winger of FC Barcelona has Italian origins by his father and Brazilian by his mother. Holder of the two nationalities, the number 11 of the Blaugrana even passed very close to the Squadra Azzurra on the occasion of Euro 2020. But the fate decided otherwise.
The auriverde dream come true
“I had to participate in the euro they won in 2021. I was practically selected,” said the former member of Leeds United. “Fortunately, the passport has never happened. At that time, the people of the Italian selection often contacted me. Jorginho, too, called me regularly. The Italian staff had an incredible project for me, something that really attracted me. But, at the same time, at the bottom of me, I kept this little hope of being able to wear the Brazil jersey. »»
It was finally in October 2021, against Venezuela (3-1) during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, that Raphinha experienced his first selection with the Seleção, delivering two assists. Still looking for a first title with the Seleção, he has 11 goals in 33 capes to date.
