Here is the latest update on the injury to Barcelona's captain, Raphinha, ahead of the upcoming La Liga and Champions League fixtures.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that Brazilian forward Raphinha will miss the club's next two matches against Getafe and Galatasaray as a precautionary measure following a muscle problem sustained during international duty.
The 29-year-old picked up the problem while representing Brazil during the recent international break, raising concerns about his availability for Barcelona's upcoming fixtures.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, October 9, Flick clarified that medical examinations had not revealed a serious injury but insisted that the club would not take unnecessary risks with the forward's fitness.
“Raphinha does not have an injury… but we have to be careful because last year he had three injuries as we need to take care of him,” Flick explained.
“He won’t be available tomorrow or against Galatasaray.”
The confirmation means Raphinha will miss Barcelona's La Liga encounter against Getafe on Saturday, October 10, as well as their UEFA Champions League clash against Turkish giants Galatasaray on Tuesday, October 13.
What Happened to Raphinha?
Raphinha developed a muscle problem in his right thigh while representing Brazil during their international friendly against Australia on September 29.
The Barcelona captain was substituted at halftime during Brazil's 4-2 victory, with subsequent examinations revealing muscle swelling in the affected area.
Although the issue is not considered serious, the Brazilian has been unable to resume full training with his Barcelona teammates.
Flick's decision to exclude him from the next two matches is largely influenced by the player's injury history, having suffered three separate setbacks during the previous season.
Raphinha's absence comes at a crucial stage of the campaign, with the forward enjoying an impressive start to the 2026/27 season.
The Brazilian has registered 14 goals in eight appearances across all competitions, establishing himself as Barcelona's leading goalscorer this season.
When Will Raphinha Return From Injury?
Barcelona have yet to announce an official return date for Raphinha, although Flick's comments suggest that the club is prioritizing his recovery rather than rushing him back into action.
With the forward already ruled out against Getafe and Galatasaray, attention will turn to Barcelona's subsequent fixtures, including their La Liga meeting with Real Betis on October 17.
His availability for that encounter will depend on his recovery and assessment by the club's medical staff.
For now, Barcelona supporters can take some encouragement from Flick's confirmation that Raphinha has not suffered a major injury, despite being unavailable for the club's next two matches.
The German manager will be hoping that the precautionary rest allows his leading goalscorer to return fully fit as Barcelona prepare for a demanding run of domestic and European fixtures.
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