Barcelona have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash with Atlético Madrid, as Brazilian forward Raphinha will be sidelined for at least five weeks due to a hamstring injury. The 29-year-old star suffered the injury during a friendly match against France last Thursday night at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, where Brazil lost 2-1. Raphinha was forced off the pitch in the first half after sustaining the injury, which was later confirmed by the Brazilian national team’s medical staff.
According to ESPN, Raphinha will return to Barcelona for treatment, but the severity of the hamstring strain rules him out for any appearances before May. This means the Catalan club will have to navigate several crucial fixtures without their attacking talisman. Furthermore, Raphinha will also miss Brazil’s friendly against Croatia on 1 April.
Upcoming Key Matches for Barcelona
| Date | Opponent | Competition | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 April | Croatia | Friendly | National Stadium |
| 2 April | Atlético Madrid | La Liga | Metropolitano |
| 8 April | Atlético Madrid | Champions League QF | Camp Nou |
| 14 April | Atlético Madrid | Champions League QF | Metropolitano |
Barcelona face Atlético Madrid three times over the next two weeks, starting with a La Liga encounter at the Metropolitano. Currently four points ahead of Real Madrid, Barcelona are determined to maintain their top spot in La Liga. Their Champions League quarter-final first leg will take place at Camp Nou on 8 April, followed by the return leg at Atlético’s home stadium on 14 April. Should they advance, the Catalans will meet either Arsenal or Sporting Lisbon in the semi-finals, with both legs scheduled for late April and early May—matches in which Raphinha is unlikely to feature.
This marks Raphinha’s third hamstring injury this season. Despite setbacks, he had been in impressive form, scoring 19 goals in 31 appearances. Previously, he missed 13 matches between September and November due to injury and an additional three games in January and February.
Raphinha’s absence opens the door for alternatives on the left wing. Marcus Rashford is now the preferred option under coach Xavi Flik, though Barcelona have other choices. Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez have previously operated as wingers, while Ferran Torres is ready to step in. Additionally, João Cancelo or Roni Bardghik could be utilised in wide positions if necessary.
With key fixtures looming, Barcelona’s ability to adapt without Raphinha will be crucial to maintaining their domestic and European ambitions this season. The squad’s depth provides options, but the Brazilian’s creativity and scoring threat will be sorely missed.