The Barcelona forward addressed the controversy at a press conference ahead of Brazil's friendly against Japan in Singapore, after his earlier remarks about Carlo Ancelotti managing his workload attracted criticism.
Raphinha had suggested that the Brazil coach needed to manage his minutes if he wanted the winger to be available at full fitness. The comments prompted questions about his willingness to represent his country, something the 29-year-old was keen to address.
"Since the first time I wore the national-team shirt, I always made my desire to be here very clear. I have never turned my back on the national team; I always did everything possible to be present," he said.
"There were other occasions when perhaps I might not have been able to be here, but I always did everything within my power to be here."
The forward stressed that representing Brazil remained a source of pride and that his previous comments had been misunderstood.
"Wearing the Brazil shirt is an honour and a privilege," he said.
He explained that the context was important, particularly after suffering three injuries in almost the same area of his leg during recent international call-ups.
"At the time of that question and my answer, I thought I had been clear, at least in my own mind, about what I wanted to say. Obviously, taking into account everything I went through during the last three call-ups, three injuries practically in the same area of my leg, what I meant was simply that I needed to look after myself."
Raphinha also rejected the suggestion that he was trying to influence which matches he would be selected for or how many minutes he would play.
"I, of course, want to be available to play as many matches as possible and play as many minutes as I can, and that is not going to change."
His priority, he explained, was to remain fit enough to contribute consistently to both Barcelona and Brazil rather than risk another setback.
The winger also acknowledged that criticism had affected him, particularly when he felt his commitment was being questioned despite his efforts to remain available.
"At the end of the day, we are human beings and, however much we try not to let certain things affect us, well, you know. I think anyone in my position, or in the position of any other national-team player, knowing that they are giving their best, would feel affected by suddenly receiving so many attacks."
Raphinha accepted that scrutiny was part of representing Brazil, but said players could not be expected to remain completely unaffected by criticism.
"I understand it perfectly because we have to be prepared for any kind of criticism, because wearing this shirt is something very important."
The explanation came after a difficult run of injuries, with Barcelona also keen to avoid another interruption to the winger's season. Raphinha's message was that managing his physical condition and remaining committed to Brazil were not competing priorities.
He wants to play, and as many minutes as possible. His request was simply to make sure he can continue doing so without another injury.