Raphinha’s thigh injury is more serious than first believed and now threatens his chances of playing in one of Barcelona’s most important matches of the season
The Brazilian suffered the setback two weeks ago against Oviedo and was expected to return in time to face Girona, but according to SPORT, his recovery has been stalled after renewed discomfort in his right leg.
What was initially described as a short-term issue has now become a race against time and now his availability for the El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu on October 26 is in serious doubt.
Raphinha had been working toward a gradual return with limited involvement planned for the matches against Girona and Olympiacos yet those hopes have faded following his latest medical assessment.
Raphinha felt discomfort upon his return and final fitness tests showed pain in his hamstring forcing him to train alone in the gym instead of joining his teammates on the pitch.
Barcelona faces Girona on October 18, followed by Olympiacos on October 21 before the big one against Real Madrid.
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Raphinha becomes the latest setback in Barcelona’s already lengthy injury list
Barcelona’s injury list has grown at a difficult stage of the season.
According to reports, Robert Lewandowski has been ruled out for four to six weeks after sustaining a thigh muscle tear during Poland’s World Cup qualifier against Lithuania further depleting the attack.
Goalkeeper Joan Garcia is also sidelined while doubts persist over Dani Olmo’s readiness for the upcoming fixtures.
There is at least some positive news as Ferran Torres has returned to training after a brief muscle problem. Lamine Yamal has also resumed participation following a groin issue.