Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that Raphinha will be unavailable for the Catalan side’s next two matches, as the club does not want to take any risks with his physical condition.
The Brazilian forward was substituted at half-time during Brazil’s 4–2 victory over Australia in a friendly played on September 29. His physical condition raised concerns, while medical examinations reportedly revealed muscle edema in the back of his right thigh.
However, Flick has clarified that the situation requires careful management to prevent the player from suffering a more serious injury.
“Raphinha doesn’t have an injury, but we need to be careful because he suffered three injuries last season. We have to look after him,” Flick stated.
The German coach has confirmed that the Brazilian will miss the match against Getafe, as well as the upcoming fixture against Galatasaray.
Raphinha’s absence could create an opportunity for Gabriel Jesus to start in Barcelona’s attacking line-up alongside Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon. Jesus has scored two goals in just 41 minutes of playing time across his four appearances for Barcelona.
Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s most important players this season. He has scored 12 goals in La Liga and 14 in eight appearances across all competitions, making him the club’s leading scorer so far, five goals ahead of Yamal.
In addition to the Brazilian forward, Flick will also be without Frenkie de Jong, who is dealing with a knee problem, Roony Bardghji, who is also suffering from a knee injury, and Andreas Christensen, who has a muscular problem in his thigh.
Barcelona are top of La Liga following a perfect start to the season and will be looking to maintain their positive momentum despite the absence of one of their key players.