FC Barcelona have been hit with a major injury concern after star winger Raphinha was forced off with a right thigh problem during Brazil’s international friendly against Australia. The 29-year-old attacker, who captained the Seleção on Tuesday, converted a penalty late in the first half to level the match at 2-2 before being substituted at halftime by head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed shortly after the break that Raphinha was experiencing discomfort in his right thigh and was withdrawn as a precaution. Real Madrid forward Endrick replaced him for the second half as Brazil eventually went on to secure a 4-2 win.

The news has sparked widespread anxiety in Catalonia, where Raphinha has enjoyed a scintillating start to the 2026/27 campaign under Hansi Flick, scoring 14 goals and delivering three assists in his opening eight appearances across all competitions.

Will Raphinha Be Fit for El Clasico Against Real Madrid?

The immediate question surrounding Raphinha’s injury is whether he will be available for Barcelona’s crucial upcoming fixtures, most notably El Clasico against Real Madrid scheduled for October 25.

While Barcelona’s medical staff await the player’s return to Spain to undergo thorough MRI scans at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, preliminary assessments outline two potential scenarios depending on the severity of the muscle issue:

  • Grade 1 Strain / Muscle Fatigue: If scans confirm minimal strain or mere overfatigue, recovery typically spans 10 to 14 days. Under this best-case timeline, Raphinha would return to training following the international break and comfortably feature in El Clasico.
  • Grade 2 Tear: If tests reveal a partial tear in his right hamstring or quadriceps—an area where Raphinha has a history of recurring problems—recovery usually requires four to six weeks. Such an outcome would officially rule him out of El Clasico as well as Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Galatasaray.

Early reports from Brazilian media indicate the substitution was largely protective. However, given Raphinha’s prior history with right thigh injuries, Hansi Flick and Barcelona’s medical department are expected to proceed with extreme caution.

Hansi Flick’s Tactical Dilemma Ahead of a Crucial Month

Losing Raphinha at this juncture represents a significant tactical setback for Hansi Flick. The Brazilian winger has emerged as a leader both on and off the pitch, driving Barcelona’s high-pressing system and providing clinical goal output alongside Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski.

Should Raphinha be sidelined for an extended period, Flick will likely explore several tactical alternatives:

  • Marcus Rashford on the Left Wing: The English forward serves as the most natural direct replacement, offering pace and directness along the left flank.
  • Ferran Torres or Dani Olmo: Deploying Olmo in an advanced attacking role or shifting Ferran Torres wide would allow Barcelona to retain tactical flexibility while maintaining creative output in the final third.
  • Formation Adjustment: Flick could temporarily transition to a narrower midfield diamond, placing extra emphasis on full-back overlaps to compensate for Raphinha’s wide threat.

What Happens Next for Barcelona and Raphinha?

Raphinha is expected to fly back to Barcelona within the next 24 hours to begin immediate rehabilitation. Barcelona’s official medical department will publish a detailed medical report once full diagnostic tests are completed in Spain.

With a congested fixture list ahead in October—including key La Liga encounters, Champions League group fixtures, and the marquee showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu—Barcelona supporters will be eagerly awaiting the official prognosis on their key playmaker.

FAQ:

What injury did Raphinha suffer?

Raphinha sustained a right thigh muscle injury during Brazil’s friendly match against Australia.

Is Raphinha officially ruled out of El Clasico?

Not yet. The severity of the injury depends on upcoming MRI scans in Barcelona. A minor strain would allow him to return in time, while a muscle tear would rule him out.

Who replaced Raphinha in the Brazil vs Australia match?

Endrick came on to replace Raphinha at the beginning of the second half.

INTERNAL LINK SUGGESTIONS:

Suggested Anchor Text: FC Barcelona squad news and player updates Target Article Type: Barcelona team hub or main La Liga news page

Suggested Anchor Text: Hansi Flick’s tactical setup at Barcelona Target Article Type: Manager profile or tactical analysis article

Suggested Anchor Text: El Clasico match preview and team news Target Article Type: Upcoming match preview for Real Madrid vs Barcelona

SOURCES:

  • Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) official match report
  • Sports Mole Injury Report
  • Türkiye Today Sports Report
  • Official La Liga & International Match Data