Raphinha returns to Barcelona after Brazil injury scare

Raphinha has been ruled out of Brazil’s friendly against India after the Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed he has suffered a muscle oedema in his right thigh.

The Barcelona forward is returning to his club as a precaution after being injured during Brazil’s 4-2 friendly victory over Australia.

Raphinha scored from the penalty spot in the match, but was replaced at half-time after developing swelling in his right thigh. He will now miss Brazil’s game against India, which is scheduled for 3 October.

The Brazilian Football Confederation said in a statement issued on Wednesday morning that Raphinha had been withdrawn from Carlo Ancelotti’s squad because of the injury.

“Muscular oedema” was the diagnosis given by the federation, which added that the decision to release him from international duty had been taken to avoid unnecessary risks.

According to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, medical examinations carried out on the Barcelona player indicated that the injury was not serious. However, Raphinha is experiencing discomfort and it was considered sensible not to expose him to further danger by continuing with Brazil.

The 28-year-old is expected to return to Barcelona as soon as possible to begin treatment with the club’s medical staff. He is also likely to undergo further tests after arriving in the city, allowing Barcelona to assess the problem and support his recovery.

The club will hope Raphinha can recover in time to play under head coach Hans-Dieter Flick in Barcelona’s first match after the international break.

Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s leading performers this season, particularly since being moved into a central attacking role as a striker. He has scored 14 goals in eight appearances for the Catalan club.

Brazil’s next fixture against India will therefore take place without the Barcelona forward, while his progress will now be monitored by the club’s medical team.