Barcelona winger Raphinha will miss around a week with a leg injury, ruling him out of the Copa del Rey quarterfinal and testing squad depth.
Barcelona have confirmed Raphinha will be sidelined for around a week with a leg injury. The Brazilian picked up the problem during Saturday’s 3-1 away win over Elche. He completed the first half before being withdrawn at the interval. Marcus Rashford was called up by Hansi Flick to replace him.
Raphinha appeared uncomfortable late in the opening period. Medical staff assessed him at halftime and advised a substitution. Barcelona later confirmed an overload in the adductor muscle of his right leg. The club stressed the injury is minor but requires short rest.
Barcelona released a brief statement on Monday morning. It confirmed Raphinha is expected to recover within one week. He did not train with the squad at the Joan Gamper Training Ground. His workload will be managed carefully to avoid aggravation.
The 29-year-old had only recently returned to consistent action. He missed nearly two months earlier this season with a hamstring injury. The club remains cautious given that recent history. A gradual return is planned once symptoms ease.
Raphinha has been an important figure under Hansi Flick. He has scored eight goals and provided three assists across competitions this season. His direct running and pressing intensity have been key on the right flank. Barcelona often rely on his width to stretch defenses.
His absence, albeit short, reduces Flick’s attacking options during a busy period. Barcelona are already without Pedri, Gavi and Andreas Christensen. That limits rotation in both midfield and wide areas. Squad depth will now be tested again.
The timing means Raphinha will miss Tuesday’s Copa del Rey quarterfinal away to Albacete. That fixture had been earmarked as a chance for Barcelona to push toward silverware. Flick must reshuffle his front line for that tie. Rashford is the most likely replacement.
Barcelona will also monitor his availability for the weekend. A return against their next LaLiga opponent remains uncertain. Medical staff will reassess him later in the week. No risks will be taken with his fitness.
Before coming off, Raphinha was lively against Elche. He pressed aggressively and combined well with the midfield. Barcelona took control of the match early and retook the leader at halftime despite Elche scoring against the run of play. His movement helped open space for teammates.
The substitution did not disrupt Barcelona’s momentum. They maintained intensity and managed the game after the break. However, the focus quickly shifted to Raphinha’s condition. Flick confirmed afterward the change was precautionary.
Barcelona sit top of LaLiga by a single point over Real Madrid. Every fixture carries weight as the title race tightens. Maintaining attacking rhythm is vital during this phase. Short term absences can still have an impact.
There was some positive news in training. Jules Kounde returned to full work after recent discomfort. That eases defensive concerns slightly. Barcelona will hope Raphinha follows quickly and returns refreshed.
Barcelona now turn attention to the Copa del Rey test at Albacete. Flick is expected to rotate but still field a strong side. Progress in the competition remains a priority. A brief injury layoff keeps Raphinha’s long term outlook positive.
If recovery stays on track, he could return within days. Barcelona’s aim is to have him fully fit for the next league stretch. Managing minutes will be key. The coming week will determine how smoothly they cope without him.
