Raphinha to miss key matches for Barcelona due to injury

The Brazilian winger sustained a muscle injury while on international duty with Brazil.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

FC Barcelona star Raphinha will miss several crucial matches, including a UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie against Atlético Madrid, due to a right leg muscle injury sustained while playing for Brazil's national team. Medical reports estimate a recovery period of approximately five weeks for the winger.

Why it matters

Raphinha's absence is a major blow for Barcelona, who are fighting on multiple fronts this season. The team will have to reconfigure their attacking lineup to maintain their pursuit of titles in La Liga and the Champions League without their influential Brazilian forward.

The details

The injury occurred during a friendly match between Brazil and France in Boston, where Raphinha felt a sharp pain in his right leg and was substituted at halftime. Tests confirmed an injury to the biceps femoris muscle, sidelining the player for around five weeks. In addition to missing the Champions League quarterfinal against Atlético Madrid, Raphinha will also be unavailable for several key La Liga matches, including the Catalan derby against RCD Espanyol, a trip to face Celta de Vigo, and a home clash against Getafe CF.

  • On March 23, Raphinha sustained the injury during the Brazil-France friendly in Boston.
  • Medical tests on March 24 confirmed the severity of the muscle injury.
  • Raphinha is expected to be out for approximately 5 weeks due to the injury.

The players

Raphinha

A Brazilian winger who plays for FC Barcelona, known for his attacking prowess and important role in the team's pursuit of titles this season.

Carlo Ancelotti

The manager of the Brazilian national team, who was responsible for substituting Raphinha at halftime of the match against France after the player reported the injury.

Hansi Flick

The head coach of FC Barcelona, who will have to navigate the team's crucial matches without their star winger Raphinha.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The issue occurred during Thursday's match when the forward felt a sharp pain in his right leg. During the halftime break, he alerted both manager Carlo Ancelotti and the medical staff, who decided not to risk him for the second half.”

— Juan Camilo González, Author

What’s next

Raphinha will now begin his recovery process under the supervision of Barcelona's medical staff, with the goal of returning to action in early May. However, his match fitness for a potential Champions League semifinal will be a concern, as he may lack the necessary competitive rhythm after the lengthy absence.

The takeaway

Raphinha's injury is a significant setback for Barcelona, who will have to find ways to maintain their attacking prowess and pursuit of titles without their influential Brazilian winger. The team's depth and ability to adapt their tactics will be tested during this crucial stretch of the season.