Raphinha elevated to Brazil captain and will wear the armband

Raphinha named Brazil captain for Saturday's friendly against Japan in Singapore, with regular skipper Marquinhos sidelined by injury.

Raphinha has been appointed Brazil captain for the friendly against Japan in Singapore on Saturday at 11:15, chosen by manager Carlo Ancelotti. The Barcelona forward takes the armband in the absence of regular captain Marquinhos, who is recovering from an injury sustained in a match against Barcelona.

Raphinha has captained Brazil before, including in one of two friendlies against Australia. The coaching staff considered rotating among established leaders Bruno Guimarães, Vini Júnior and Gabriel Magalhães but opted to stick with the Barcelona player.

According to an internal order, Arsenal midfielder Bruno Guimarães is next in line to wear the armband when Raphinha is not on the pitch. The choice reflects Raphinha's conduct within the national team and recognition of his captain's role at Barcelona.