Raphinha raised issues at FC Barcelona final week after struggling an harm that stored him sidelined for the membership’s final two matches. With the primary leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals in opposition to Atlético Madrid lower than every week away, the Brazilian winger offered an replace on his health and addressed whether or not he expects to be accessible for the sport.
Concern unfold amongst supporters when Barcelona launched a press release confirming Raphinha had suffered an overload within the adductor muscle of his proper leg. With an preliminary restoration timeline of 1 week, the Brazilian missed the match in opposition to Albacete in addition to the La Liga conflict with RCD Mallorca, and with Atlético looming, his availability has grow to be a significant speaking level.
After being named Finest Sportsman of the 12 months on the Toresky Awards, organized by Cadena SER, Raphinha spoke with reporters and was requested straight about his harm standing: “I’m feeling higher, we’re taking it daily. We’ll see if I’m prepared for Thursday, however we’re ready. There are alternatives, however we already understand how accidents go. I miss being with the workforce.”
Regardless of acknowledging progress in his restoration, the ahead stopped in need of confirming his availability for the high-stakes matchup in opposition to Atlético Madrid. “I can’t lie, I’d like to say I can play on Thursday, however I’m slicing it a bit shut,” Raphinha added, providing a extra cautious evaluation.
Raphinha taking part in for Barcelona.
Barcelona will face Atlético Madrid within the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals on Thursday, February 12, on the Estadio Metropolitano. With the return leg scheduled for March 3 at Camp Nou, having Raphinha accessible (the winger has scored 13 objectives and added 5 assists in 22 appearances) may show decisive and tilt the stability in Barcelona’s favor.
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The Champions League or the World Cup?
Whereas the 2025-26 season is in full swing, consideration is already drifting towards what comes subsequent, together with the 2026 World Cup set to kick off in June. Brazil, led by Carlo Ancelotti and hoping for the return of Neymar, will enter the match with lofty expectations, and Raphinha may be very a lot a part of that image as he continues to get pleasure from probably the greatest stretches of his profession.
On the identical time, the UEFA Champions League stays one of many few main trophies lacking from his résumé, and when requested which title he would somewhat win, Raphinha refused to decide on: “I can’t select. Since I arrived at Barcelona, I’ve got down to win all the things with this membership. The Champions League is a private objective, one thing I actually need. With the ability to win the World Cup with the Brazil nationwide workforce can also be one thing very particular.“
