Optimism returns with Raphinha

A longer injury than expected

Since he was injured in the Carlos Tartiere in the 65th minute, Raphinha has not participated with the team again. Medical tests confirmed a injury to the middle third of the right hamstring, with an estimated recovery time of about three weeks. However, more than six weeks have passed, as his initial recovery was not as expected.

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After the international break in October, there was even talk of a possible setback that prevented the player from reappearing against Girona, a match that marked his goal to arrive in rhythm for the Clásico. During that week, the player partially participated in Wednesday´s training but was absent the next day, which reignited rumors about a new muscle discomfort. Club sources denied this version, explaining that simply “the sensations were not the best to push and reappear against Real Madrid.”

Optimism in the azulgrana locker room

Since then, no specific date has been set for his return, but in the culé locker room, optimism reigns. Although he is still not training at the same pace as the group under Hansi Flick, it is considered that Raphinha is already facing the final stretch of his recovery. The Brazilian was not called up for the match against Elche and will also not be available against Bruges. However, the club believes he could have options to be included in the list to travel to Vigo. Another question will be whether he will finally play minutes against Celta, as the coaching staff is clear that he will not be forced under any circumstances.

Ancelotti does not call him up with Brazil

Another factor that plays in favor of his recovery is the absence of international pressure. This week, Raphinha could return to train partially with the group, and he will do so without the additional burden that his call-up to the Brazilian national team would entail. The coach Carlo Ancelotti did not include him in the official list published by the CBF yesterday. Thus, even if the player travels with Barça to Vigo, the only possibility for the Italian coach to call him up with the Canarinha would be due to the injury of one of the already called-up players.

A key piece for Flick

In the azulgrana coaching staff, there is some concern, as Flick considers Raphinha a fundamental player. The coach not only misses his contribution on the field but also his daily presence at the Ciutat Esportiva, where he acts as one of the leaders of the locker room.

Heeeey, Raphinha ???? pic.twitter.com/lDTIema86P

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 22, 2025

The Brazilian, who was key in the team´s system last season, has barely been able to play seven official matches this season (six in LaLiga and one in Champions), in which he has scored three goals and two assists. His return, increasingly close, is seen as a boost of morale and leadership for both Flick and the entire culé locker room.