FC Barcelona forward Raphinha sustained a right thigh muscle injury while playing for the Brazil national team, raising immediate fitness concerns ahead of the upcoming El Clásico fixture against Real Madrid. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that the winger was substituted at halftime during Brazil’s second match against Australia.
Right Thigh Injury Forces Halftime Substitution
Raphinha was replaced by Endrick at the break after experiencing discomfort in his right leg during the opening 45 minutes. Prior to his withdrawal, the Barcelona attacker had been among the most influential players on the pitch. He converted a penalty kick from the eleven-meter spot to pull the Canarinha level after Australia had taken a 2-1 lead.
The fixture marked Raphinha’s second start for Brazil during the international window, having already played the full 90 minutes in the team’s initial match against the Australian side. In an official statement, the CBF addressed the substitution directly, noting, “Due to discomfort in his right thigh, forward Raphinha was substituted at halftime.”
Familiar Physical Setbacks for Barcelona
The latest fitness issue carries particular concern for Barcelona supporters given Raphinha’s struggles with muscular problems during the previous campaign. Physical ailments significantly disrupted his availability throughout the year, most notably a September muscle injury that forced him to miss the Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu alongside five additional La Liga fixtures.
Similar right-thigh complications resurfaced during the decisive stretch of the season, ruling him out of crucial matchups including the UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie against Atlético Madrid.
Schedule Implications and Next Checkpoints
Medical staff will evaluate whether Raphinha travels back to Barcelona immediately or remains with the Brazil squad for their upcoming trip to India, which is scheduled for Saturday, October 3. The timeline of his recovery will dictate his availability for the high-profile La Liga clash against Real Madrid, set for October 25 at Camp Nou.
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