Barcelona face a significant setback as Brazilian winger Raphinha is confirmed to be sidelined for multiple upcoming fixtures after picking up an injury while representing his national team. The 29‑year‑old suffered a right‑leg hamstring injury during Brazil’s friendly clash against France, forcing him off the pitch and sparking concerns around his availability for Barcelona’s hectic fixture list. The club has since confirmed that he will undergo a recovery and rehabilitation period that is expected to last around five weeks. Duration of Absence and Expected Impact The upcoming weeks represent a crucial phase for Barcelona in both domestic and European competitions. With Raphinha out of contention, the club’s attacking options take a hit as they aim to retain momentum across all tournaments. During his absence, the Brazilian forward is projected to miss approximately eight matches in total — including domestic league challenges and pivotal Champions League battles. His absence comes at a particularly critical time, with the Catalan side preparing for decisive clashes that could influence their LaLiga position and European ambitions. Raphinha’s pace and creativity on the right wing have been central to Barcelona’s tactical setup throughout the season. List of Matches Raphinha Is Likely to Miss Based on the latest projections and the expected recovery timeline, the fixtures Raphinha will not be available for include: Missing these games significantly alters Barcelona’s available options as they seek to maintain pressure both domestically and in the UEFA Champions League. Raphinha’s Broader Season and World Cup Hopes The injury occurred during Brazil’s 2‑1 friendly loss to France, where Raphinha played before needing early substitution due to discomfort. His focus will now shift entirely toward recovery, as he aims to return in time to be part of Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under manager Carlo Ancelotti. While hamstring strains can vary in severity, Barcelona’s medical team will monitor his progress carefully, balancing the desire for a swift return with the need to prevent any recurring issues. This injury also highlights the ongoing challenge top clubs face when international breaks interrupt domestic schedules.
