Raphinha Injury Rocks Barcelona After International Friendly
Barcelona's hopes for a smooth final international break of the 2025-26 season have been dashed. Coach Hansi Flick, already contending with numerous key injuries this campaign, faces yet another potential setback.
Winger Raphinha, 28, who previously missed six weeks due to consecutive hamstring injuries this season, may now face another period out of action. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed his withdrawal from Friday's friendly loss against France due to a muscle issue, as reported by Diario AS.
During the first half of the game at Gillette Stadium, Raphinha experienced discomfort in his right thigh. He is scheduled for medical evaluations with Brazil's national team doctors in the coming hours to determine the extent of the injury. It is currently assumed he will miss Tuesday's match against Croatia.
Ancelotti Comments on Raphinha's Condition
Post-match, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti discussed Raphinha's situation, confirming that the Barcelona winger 'felt something' late in the first half, prompting his half-time substitution. Ancelotti stated: "Raphinha played very well, then he had a problem at the end of the first half and we had to change him. His muscle bothered a little, and I think they will evaluate him [on Friday]."
Barcelona will be anxiously awaiting news, hoping Raphinha's withdrawal was merely a precaution. With a critical series of matches immediately following the international break, including three fixtures against Atletico Madrid within 11 days, the absence of their key wide player would represent a significant setback.
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