Leeds United winger Raphinha could receive another call-up to the Brazil national squad in two weeks after rejecting the chance to represent his country in the latest international break.
The Lowdown: Refused
Raphinha, 24, received his first call-up to Tite’s squad in August for the September triple header against Chile, Argentina and Peru.
The winger was originally thought to have been refused the right to travel this month due to quarantine protocols, with Andrea Radrizzani since revealing the player himself rejected the opportunity in order to focus on his club.
The Latest: Further problems
According to reports in Brazil [Via MOT Leeds News], Tite is set to name his squad for the World Cup qualifying double-header with Venezuela and Uruguay on Friday 17th September.
South American outlet Ge Globo states that the Brazilian coach expects backing from FIFA this time around to avoid another circumstance where Premier League clubs can stop players participating.
FIFA are discussing a new five-day quarantine rule to aid players in returning to their club duties, and Raphinha could get the call once again.
The Verdict: Headache for Leeds
With the news that FIFA want a shorter quarantine not yet confirmed, Leeds and Raphinha himself could be left with another headache if he is indeed called up once more in nine days time.
Another call-up for Raphinha in two weeks will disrupt the scene again if the situation hasn’t been sorted by then, and the winger could miss the trip to Southampton in the middle of October if he elects to give it a go with his national side.
Raphinha’s importance to Marcelo Bielsa’s side has drastically improved as he has settled in at Yorkshire. His 9.30 expected assists last term have seen him become one of the first names on the team sheet due to his trickery and creativity.
In other Leeds news, Bielsa has been blown away by striker’s performances. Find out more here.