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Brazil have been handed a major fitness boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup round-of-16 clash with Norway, as winger Raphinha has returned to training. The Barcelona star resumed work on the pitch on Tuesday, offering head coach Carlo Ancelotti some much-needed relief following recent injury concerns within the camp.

Encouraging progress in New Jersey

Brazil’s preparations for their last-16 encounter have received a timely lift with Raphinha taking part in his first individual training session in New Jersey. The Barcelona forward’s return to the field marks a significant step forward in his recovery from a right thigh injury that kept him out of action during the group stage.

The 29-year-old has been working closely with the Selecao’s medical staff to overcome the muscle problem. While the rest of the squad enjoyed a period of rest until Wednesday afternoon, Raphinha stayed behind at the training base to continue his intensive rehabilitation schedule, underlining his determination to regain full fitness ahead of the tournament’s knockout phase.

Ancelotti urges caution

Despite the positive signs from his return to training, Brazil’s coaching team remains cautious. With Lucas Paqueta also undergoing treatment for a thigh issue sustained in the match against Japan, there is a shared understanding within the camp that Raphinha should not be rushed back into competitive play and risk aggravating the injury.

According to reports from ESPN, although Raphinha’s progress has been encouraging, he is still a doubt for the upcoming fixture against Norway. The medical staff continues to monitor his condition closely, and Ancelotti is expected to make a late decision on whether the former Leeds United winger will feature in the matchday squad or be held back for a possible quarter-final appearance if Brazil progresses.

Persistent fitness struggles

Raphinha’s current setback is particularly disheartening given his ongoing struggles with similar injuries. This latest thigh problem marks the fifth occurrence of an issue in the same area during the 2025-26 season. The winger has already missed several matches for both Barcelona and the national team due to recurring muscle strains and knocks.

The injury occurred during the first half of Brazil’s 3-0 win over Haiti in Philadelphia. The visibly emotional winger feared his World Cup campaign might be cut short when he left the pitch, but subsequent tests revealed a muscle strain rather than a full tear. This diagnosis has kept alive hopes of a return, provided his body continues to respond positively to the increasing physical demands in training.

Confidence in Brazil’s squad depth

There is a strong sense of self-belief within the Brazil camp that the team has ample depth to manage the round-of-16 fixture without risking Raphinha’s long-term fitness. In his absence, young talent Rayan has stepped into the starting lineup, offering a different attacking dynamic on the flank under Ancelotti’s tactical approach. The focus remains on ensuring Raphinha returns at full strength for the later stages of the tournament rather than pushing for an early comeback that could jeopardize his recovery.