Raphinha has suffered a fresh injury scare while on international duty with Brazil, just weeks before Barcelona face Real Madrid in the first El Clásico of the 2026/27 La Liga season.
Barcelona forward Raphinha was substituted at half-time during Brazil’s 2-1 friendly defeat to Australia on Tuesday after experiencing discomfort in his right thigh.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that the 29-year-old was taken off as a precaution because of the muscle discomfort. Raphinha had started the match and scored Brazil’s equalising goal from the penalty spot before being replaced by Endrick.
The development will concern Barcelona, particularly given Raphinha's importance to Hansi Flick's side. The winger has enjoyed an outstanding start to the 2026/27 campaign, scoring 14 goals in his first eight competitive appearances, including consecutive hat-tricks before the international break.
Will Raphinha be available for the El Clásico?
Barcelona are scheduled to host Real Madrid in the first El Clásico of the season on October 25 at Spotify Camp Nou. There is currently no confirmed indication that Raphinha will miss the Clásico. His condition will need to be assessed further following the latest setback, with Barcelona likely to monitor his recovery closely.
The injury is particularly noteworthy because Raphinha has already experienced significant muscle problems in the past, including a right-thigh injury that affected his availability during the previous season.
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