Raphinha returns for Brazil, but Rayan raises selection headache for Ancelotti

FIFA World Cup: Raphinha has returned to full training before Brazil's World Cup last-16 match against Norway. His comeback leaves Carlo Ancelotti weighing experience against Rayan's recent impact.

In Short

• Raphinha completed Friday's training after recovering from a Grade 1 hamstring strain
• He missed wins over Scotland and Japan after being hurt against Haiti
• Teenager Rayan impressed with pressing, direct running and tireless work-rate up front

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has received a timely boost ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Norway, with Raphinha returning to full training after recovering from a hamstring injury. The Barcelona winger now appears available for selection, but his comeback has created an unexpected dilemma rather than providing a straightforward solution.

The 28-year-old trained normally with the squad on Friday during Brazil's penultimate session before the knockout clash in New Jersey, taking part in passing drills after completing his rehabilitation programme. Raphinha had missed Brazil's wins over Scotland and Japan after suffering a Grade 1 strain to his right hamstring during the group-stage victory against Haiti.

His return, however, comes at a time when Brazil may have already found an unlikely hero.

Rayan, the 19-year-old winger who replaced Raphinha against Haiti, has grabbed his opportunity with both hands, producing energetic displays that have quickly made him one of Brazil's standout performers at the tournament. His relentless pressing, fearless running and willingness to do the dirty work have helped Brazil score crucial goals against Scotland and in the dramatic late comeback victory over Japan that sealed qualification for the knockout rounds.

With Neymar also back in contention after overcoming his own fitness concerns, Ancelotti suddenly has more attacking options than problems.

WHO STARTS AGAINST NORWAY?

On paper, Raphinha would normally walk straight back into Brazil's starting XI.

Before his injury, he had been one of Ancelotti's trusted attacking outlets, combining his pace, creativity and experience with the defensive discipline required from Brazil's wide forwards. However, since the Barcelona star's absence due to injury, Rayan has also done exactly that.

His direct running has stretched opposition defences, while his pressing from the front has given Brazil a different dimension without the ball. More importantly, his impact has translated into results, with the teenager playing a significant role in two decisive victories during Raphinha's absence.

It leaves Ancelotti balancing experience against form ahead of one of Brazil's biggest matches of the tournament.

Raphinha certainly has the pedigree. The Barcelona winger enjoyed another impressive club season and has become a regular fixture in Brazil's attack. Yet after missing two weeks of football and returning from another hamstring setback, the coaching staff may be reluctant to throw him straight back into a high-intensity knockout contest.

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