Barcelona receives a major blow ahead of the Champions League showdown

Barcelona has received unfortunate news at a crucial point in the season as Raphinha is forced to withdraw from the Brazil national team due to injury.

The winger from the Catalan club suffered a muscle issue during the friendly match where the Brazil national team lost to the France national team 1-2. Initially, the injury was considered not serious, but subsequent medical examinations confirmed a more severe extent than expected.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) officially confirmed that Raphinha cannot continue with the national team. Coach Carlo Ancelotti had to send the player back to his club after imaging results showed he sustained an injury.

The announcement from CBF stated: “Players Raphinha and Wesley were withdrawn from the squad by Coach Ancelotti on Friday. Both felt pain in the back of their right thigh during the match against France. After examinations, the players were confirmed to have muscle injuries and will return for continued treatment. No replacements will be called up.”

Raphinha started in the match against France in Boston but could not complete the game. Shortly after, Barcelona also issued an official statement regarding the player's condition: “Raphinha has a right hamstring injury, confirmed through medical tests after the Brazil vs. France match. The player will return to Barcelona for treatment. The expected recovery time is approximately five weeks.”

This is clearly a significant loss for Barcelona during the final stretch of the season. The Catalan club is facing a packed schedule, including crucial matches against Atletico Madrid, the two Champions League quarter-final legs, and the Catalan derby against Espanyol. The absence of a dynamic and experienced player like Raphinha will undoubtedly impact Coach Hansi Flick's plans considerably.

More worryingly, this is not the first time Raphinha has encountered issues in this area this season. Previously, the 29-year-old suffered a similar injury at the end of September and was sidelined for up to two months, even experiencing multiple recurrences during his recovery. This makes Barcelona's coaching staff even more cautious in managing his treatment and usage going forward.