Raphinha sustained a right hamstring injury during the friendly match between Brazil and France. Initial medical examinations indicate a recovery period of approximately 5 weeks.
Consequently, Raphinha is expected to miss five La Liga matches against Atletico, Espanyol, Getafe, Celta Vigo, and Osasuna. Additionally, he will be absent for both Champions League quarter-final legs against Atletico on 8/4 and 14/4. The 29-year-old winger could potentially return when Barca hosts Real in La Liga's 35th round on 10/5.
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Raphinha playing in Brazil's 1-2 friendly loss to France in the US on 26/3. *Photo: EFE* |
This season, Raphinha has previously suffered two other right hamstring injuries. He missed 13 matches from 9/2025 to 11/2025 and three matches in 1/2026 and 2/2026. Despite these setbacks, the Brazilian star remains one of Barca's most vital players, having scored 19 goals and provided eight assists in 31 appearances.
Marcus Rashford could benefit from Raphinha's absence. The English forward is the primary backup option on the left wing.
However, coach Hansi also has other choices. Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, Roony Bardghji, and Ferran Torres are all capable of playing on the left flank. Defender Joao Cancelo can also push higher up the pitch to operate as a forward.
Barca has faced Atletico three times this season. They secured a 3-1 victory in the first leg of La Liga but lost 3-4 on aggregate in the Copa del Rey semi-finals (losing 0-4 and winning 3-0).
Should Barca overcome Atletico in the Champions League quarter-finals, they will advance to the semi-finals to face the winner of the Arsenal - Sporting tie on 28/4 and 6/5. However, Raphinha's return by then is uncertain.
Thanh Quy
