Barcelona dealt fresh injury scare as superstar forward suffers setback on international duty | OneFootball

Raphinha has once again become the centre of concern for Barcelona after picking up a fresh injury scare while representing Brazil.

The winger started in Brazil’s friendly against France and looked sharp in the opening exchanges. 

However, the night took a worrying turn just before halftime.

According to the Brazilian Football Confederation, relayed by AS, Raphinha was substituted at the break after experiencing discomfort in his right thigh. 

While the decision appeared precautionary at first, the situation has quickly escalated into a potential injury concern.

Ancelotti confirms concern

Barcelona are now anxiously waiting for clarity, with medical tests scheduled to determine the exact extent of the problem. 

Given his recent injury history, even a minor setback could have significant implications.

After the match, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed the situation, offering insight into why the substitution was made and what might follow.

“Raphinha played very well, but then he had a problem at the end of the first half and we had to change him. 

Raphinha was taken off at half-time. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

“His muscle bothered him a little and I think they are going to evaluate him tomorrow,” he said.

Recurring issue raises alarm

This is not the first time the Brazilian has dealt with muscle discomfort in his right leg. 

In fact, he has already missed multiple matches for Barcelona in recent weeks due to similar issues.

He was previously forced off at halftime against Elche in La Liga and was unavailable for clashes against Albacete in the Copa del Rey, Mallorca in La Liga, and Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

The recurrence of the same problem will undoubtedly raise concerns within the club’s medical staff, especially at such a critical stage of the season.

Trouble for Barcelona

The timing of this potential injury could not be worse for Barcelona. 

This is because once the international break comes to an end, the club is preparing for a decisive run of fixtures.

Hansi Flick’s side are set to face Atletico Madrid in a crucial La Liga encounter, followed by a high-stakes UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie.

If Raphinha is ruled out, it would represent yet another setback for Flick, who has already had to manage rotations and injuries carefully throughout the campaign.