Barcelona remain concerned over the fitness of two stars currently at the World Cup | OneFootball

Barcelona are closely monitoring their internationals at the World Cup, but the club’s main concern surrounds the fitness of two players: Raphinha and Ronald Araujo.

According to AS, there is pessimism inside Barça over whether either player will be available in the coming weeks.

The club are following all their players, but these two cases are being treated with special attention because of their recent physical history.

Raphinha’s situation is the most worrying. Brazil confirmed a hamstring issue after he came off against Haiti, but the report claims the problem is more serious than first imagined, describing it as a small tear in the right biceps femoris.

Raphinha injury risk looks too high

Raphinha suffered an injury against Haiti. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

For Barcelona, this is not just about one tournament. Raphinha has already had problems with the same muscle this season, including relapses, and that makes any rushed return dangerous.

The club know how important he is when fit. His intensity, pressing and attacking production are central to Hansi Flick’s football. That is exactly why he must be protected properly now.

If Brazil force him back too quickly, Barça could be the ones paying the price later.

A World Cup knockout match matters, of course, but Barcelona need Raphinha available across an entire club season, not just for one high-risk appearance.

Araujo’s case is different but also uncomfortable. The Uruguayan has not played yet at the World Cup because of soleus discomfort, and Marcelo Bielsa confirmed he will not be fit for the Spain game either.

Araujo has not played at the World Cup so far. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Araujo’s season has already been difficult because of injuries, his mental health break and questions around his role under Flick. Another setback only deepens the uncertainty around his future.

Lamine offers the positive contrast

The one positive case is Lamine Yamal. Barcelona are pleased with how Spain have managed his return, giving him gradual minutes rather than rushing him.

Lamine’s recovery is progressing as planned, and he could play 90 minutes against Uruguay. This is a huge boost for La Roja.

This is the template the Blaugrana will hope Brazil and Uruguay follow with Raphinha and Araujo respectively. Showing patience with these injuries is important.

However, the World Cup is a source of pride for the players, and there is no doubt that both will want to push themselves to be available for their nation.

It remains to be seen how Carlo Ancelotti and Marcelo Bielsa handle their recovery in the coming weeks.