Raphinha back as return date scheduled
The Brazilian returns to Barcelona after his 'family therapy'. He will join the team this Wednesday and, barring any surprises, will also be back in Madrid next Tuesday.
Having suffered a hamstring injury in his right leg, with an estimated recovery time of five to six weeks, Raphinha returned to Barcelona on Monday from Porto Alegre. Hansi Flick, aware of the emotional impact the setback in Boston during the France-Brazil match had had on the Brazilian, sent him home to be with his family. There, he spent time with them while continuing his training under the guidance of his trusted physical coaches. He used the days he would have spent with Brazil to recharge ahead of what lies between now and June, including the World Cup.
Even though he cannot be on the pitch, neither Raphinha nor Flick wanted him to be absent from the dressing room on the eve of the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals against Atlético Madrid, where his presence will serve as moral support for the squad.
Raphinha arrived in Barcelona amid unexpectedly tight security measures. He made no statements. He will not play this Wednesday against Atlético, but barring any unforeseen setbacks he will be at Camp Nou and will also travel to Madrid next week.
An extension of Flick on the pitch, he is determined to play in the final that slipped away from him in Milan last season, when he scored the 2-3 against Inter almost at the death. He will continue his recovery in Barcelona but has already indicated that he expects to return sooner than many anticipate.
Yamal signalling Raphinha before the assist 👀#UCL pic.twitter.com/axuYyDe9Iw
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 23, 2025
Related stories
Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.
Complete your personal details to comment