Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has stepped in to defend Brazil team-mate Raphinha after the Barcelona forward’s comments about managing his minutes drew criticism. Raphinha made the remarks at his recent contract renewal ceremony, saying he is not yet fully fit and that national team coach Carlo Ancelotti knows about it. Some observers took this to mean he did not want to give his all for Brazil. Gabriel answered those critics at a press conference in Singapore on Wednesday, saying the words had been taken out of context. What Raphinha said was this: “The national team coach will know how to manage my playing time. We’ve spoken, and he knows I’m not yet at 100 per cent fitness. I ask Barcelona fans not to worry about this.” Gabriel pointed to the heavy demands of the modern calendar and said even top players cannot stay at peak level all year. “We are high-level players, and what we always want is to play,” he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. “I think many misinterpreted what Raphinha said. We are human, and sometimes we need to rest, even mentally.” He said the packed schedule in Europe explains the call for caution. “In Europe, we play every two or three days, and there are many matches,” he continued. “When we join the national team, we want to make the most of our time here and learn, but many misinterpret some statements, and that’s what happened with Raphinha.” Gabriel said the Brazil squad has no doubts about his loyalty. “Within the group, we didn’t understand his words to mean that he came here to rest or anything like that,” he added. “We know his dedication to the national team well; his commitment is exemplary, and he is an ideal player for us.” Brazil are in Asia for two friendlies, against Japan on 14 November and hosts Singapore three days later. They give Raphinha a chance to show his fitness on the pitch, while the medical staff will manage his minutes carefully to avoid a setback.