FC Barcelona forward Raphinha remains a doubt for the upcoming La Liga fixture against Getafe after staying behind in the gym during training, SPORT reported. The Brazilian attacker missed collective drills for the second day following a right hamstring issue sustained during international duty with Brazil.
Fitness Uncertainty Surrounds Raphinha Ahead of Getafe Clash
The forward cut short his time with the Brazil national team after experiencing discomfort in the posterior region of his right thigh during a match against Australia. Upon returning to Catalonia, medical examinations at the club’s facilities initially ruled out a severe tear, identifying the issue instead as a minor muscular edema. Despite external reports suggesting the player was progressing favorably toward a Saturday return, technical staff ultimately kept him out of ball work on Thursday. Head coach Hansi Flick has adopted a cautious stance, ensuring the player completes specific gym rehabilitation rather than risking a premature comeback. The Brazilian was substituted at halftime against Australia after scoring from a penalty kick that temporarily tied the match, which ultimately finished in a 4 to 2 victory for the five-time world champions, following two full appearances for his national team.
Assessing Flick’s Attacking Options Without the League’s Top Scorer
Raphinha’s absence leaves a significant void in Barcelona’s starting lineup. The forward has enjoyed a prolific start to the campaign, netting 12 goals in La Liga—putting him ahead of competitors like Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal—and totaling 14 goals across eight appearances in all competitions, including Champions League action. With his availability for Saturday’s 18:30 CEST (16:30 UTC) kickoff at the Spotify Camp Nou hanging on Friday’s final training session, Flick must weigh several internal alternatives. Mundo Deportivo highlighted three primary candidates to step into the central attacking role: Gabriel Jesus, who stayed in Barcelona during the international break and brings fresh legs; English winger Anthony Gordon, who arrives in strong scoring form after international duty; and Dani Olmo, who could operate as a false nine following a productive stint with Spain. The Brazilian has also contributed three assists this term alongside his 14 goals in eight games.
International Returns Bolster Training Session Options
While Raphinha worked indoors, Thursday’s session brought a wave of reinforcements back to the Ciutat Esportiva. Spanish internationals Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, Fermín, Dani Olmo, and Lamine Yamal rejoined the group following the conclusion of their national team fixtures. They were joined by England’s Anthony Gordon and Croatia’s Dominik Livakovic, both of whom wrapped up their national team duties on Tuesday. In addition to the returning internationals, goalkeeper Joan Garcia and midfielder Frenkie de Jong continued their physical progression with the squad. Garcia appears on track to make the matchday squad against Getafe, whereas De Jong requires additional conditioning following his extended period of inactivity. Meanwhile, defender Andreas Christensen stepped onto the grass for individual running drills as he works his way back from a muscular injury sustained against Sevilla.
Past Injuries Impact Barcelona Attacker Before Domestic Resumption
Barcelona’s fresh concerns arrive amid a pattern of physical setbacks for the attacker with his national team across the last two call-ups, which also included the World Cup. In March, a muscular injury during a friendly against France sidelined him for the final stretch of the European season, forcing him to miss the Champions League quarterfinal clash against Atlético de Madrid. Later during the 2026 World Cup, he sustained another right thigh injury against Haiti that required him to leave the pitch and begin intensive treatment. Ahead of the domestic resumption, Barcelona leads the standings with 21 points from seven consecutive victories, establishing a six-point cushion over Real Madrid. The upcoming encounter against Getafe is designated as match 3 of Jornada 12 in La Quiniela.
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