Barcelona rule out injury relapse for key forward who will miss El Clasico | OneFootball

Earlier today, it was confirmed by multiple reliable sources that FC Barcelona winger Raphinha will miss the Clasico against Real Madrid on Sunday.

The 28-year-old superstar had resumed training this week after recovering from a hamstring injury, but could not complete Thursday’s session and sat out altogether on Friday as he was not feeling fully well.

It sparked rumours of a possible injury relapse for Raphinha, which would have meant another month out on the sidelines and four more matches missed.

No relapse, but still not back to 100%

However, in a positive update, Mundo Deportivo reports that Raphinha has not suffered a relapse of his hamstring injury.

The Barcelona captain will not be available for Sunday’s El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu. According to club sources, after testing himself during Friday’s session, it was determined that the Brazilian is not yet fit to compete at 100%.

Raphinha will miss El Clasico. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

As a precaution, the coaching staff has decided not to take any risks with his recovery. The player continues to follow his rehabilitation plan, and medical evaluations have ruled out any relapse of his previous hamstring injury.

Within the club, there is no fixed timetable for Raphinha’s comeback. Barça’s medical staff prefer to avoid setting specific dates, and sources also deny the more optimistic recovery timelines that had been circulating in recent days.

Raphinha’s absence is a significant blow for Hansi Flick, who will now be without one of his most dynamic and dangerous forwards for the showdown against Real Madrid.

The Brazilian international was decisive in last season’s 0-4 win for the Catalans at the Bernabeu, scoring one of the goals.

While his absence will be a blow, Barcelona will be relieved that there is no injury relapse.