Carlo Ancelotti plans No. 9 role for Raphinha as Brazil prepare changes against Australia

Barcelona captain Raphinha is set to continue his heavy workload on international duty as Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti prepares tactical adjustments for Tuesday's second friendly against Australia.

The 27- played the full 90 minutes during Brazil's underwhelming initial encounter against the Socceroos. Following that disappointing display, Ancelotti is expected to ring the changes across his lineup, but Raphinha is unlikely to be given any respite.

Tactical Shift to Center-Forward

Reports emerging from Brazil indicate that Ancelotti has tested Raphinha in a central striker role during training sessions ahead of Tuesday's fixture. The Barcelona forward could feature as a No. 9 in place of Endrick, mirroring the central attacking responsibilities he has excelled in at club level.

Raphinha has enjoyed a blistering start to the campaign with Barcelona, netting 14 goals across all competitions while frequently operating through the middle or as an inside forward.

Key Trio Retained

Despite widespread changes planned for the rest of the squad after their lackluster opening outing, Ancelotti views Raphinha as indispensable to his tactical plans. Current indications suggest Raphinha, Vinicius Junior, and Bruno Guimaraes will be the only three starters retained from the first match to face Australia again on Tuesday.