Real Madrid forward Endrick admits Brazil are sorely missing Raphinha: ‘I hope he is back soon’ | OneFootball

Brazil’s preparations for their World Cup Round of 16 clash against Norway have suffered a setback following Raphinha’s injury, and Real Madrid forward Endrick has now shared his thoughts on the Barcelona winger’s absence.

The Raphinha injury update has dominated headlines in Brazil over the past few days after it was confirmed that the Barcelona captain will not recover in time to face Norway in the Round of 16.

Raphinha picked up a muscle problem during Brazil’s second World Cup fixture against Haiti and has yet to return to full training. 

The winger continues to work individually as he aims to accelerate his recovery process.

His absence has been felt inside the Brazilian camp, with Endrick admitting that losing a player of Raphinha’s quality represents a significant blow for the national team at such a crucial stage.

Endrick reacts to Raphinha’s injury

The latest Raphinha injury news means Carlo Ancelotti will have to approach the Brazil vs Norway encounter without one of his most influential attacking players.

Although the Barcelona star has resumed light individual work, medical staff has decided against taking risks with his fitness.

Endrick has talked about Raphinha’s injury. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Endrick, who spent the season on loan at Olympique Lyonnais from Real Madrid, acknowledged the importance of the Brazilian winger and praised the effort he is putting into his recovery.

Discussing the Barcelona captain’s situation, Endrick said, 

“He’s a hugely important player. He’s a beast and we’re really sorry to be without him. 

“I hope he’s back soon; he was unlucky with that injury. He must be desperate to return. 

“He’s training in the mornings, afternoons and evenings so he can come back as quickly as possible,” he stated, as per SPORT.

Raphinha injury remains a concern for Brazil and Barcelona

Raphinha will not play in the Round of 16. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

The Raphinha injury situation continues to be closely monitored by both Brazil and Barcelona.

The 29-year-old was forced off before halftime against Haiti after experiencing discomfort in the back of his right thigh. 

Since then, he has missed Brazil’s victory over Scotland in the group stage and the Round of 32 triumph against Japan.

Recent fitness assessments have also ruled him out of the Brazil vs Norway World Cup showdown, with the Brazilian Football Confederation opting for a cautious approach.

Barcelona’s medical staff are maintaining contact with the Brazilian national team as they track the player’s progress, mindful of the muscular issues that have troubled him throughout the year.

There is optimism that Raphinha could make his return should Brazil secure qualification for the World Cup quarterfinals, although no unnecessary risks will be taken.