Bad news for Brazil: What we know about Raphinha’s injury

Brazil have suffered a major setback at the World Cup. In a statement released by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), the Seleção confirmed that Raphinha has suffered a recurrence of his hamstring problem. His participation in the tournament is now in doubt, although he is not expected to be removed from the squad at this stage. The Barcelona forward joins a growing injury list that already includes Éder Militão, Rodrygo, Estêvão, Wesley and the uncertainty surrounding Neymar.

“Player Raphinha underwent imaging tests on Saturday which confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his right thigh. The player will continue an intensive treatment protocol under the supervision of the Brazilian national team’s medical staff, with the aim of recovering and returning to activity as soon as possible,” the federation said in its official statement.

The winger was forced to ask for a substitution shortly after the half-hour mark of Brazil’s game against Haiti after feeling discomfort. There was little doubt about the seriousness of the issue. His facial expressions and visible concern immediately raised alarms within the Brazilian camp. He left Lincoln Financial Field with a slight but noticeable limp. This morning, the Seleção’s medical department, led by Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar, carried out the necessary examinations, which confirmed the diagnosis: a recurrence of the injury that will at least rule him out of the game against Scotland.

Another frustrating setback for Raphinha

This is another blow for the attacker. Earlier this season, he spent a total of 102 days on the sidelines and missed 24 games for both Barcelona and Brazil. Throughout the campaign, he struggled with a succession of injuries, most of them linked to ongoing issues involving his hamstrings and right thigh. At Barcelona, there was even concern over his decision to push himself during the March international break after suffering a previous setback in the game against France.

As the CBF noted, Raphinha is already undergoing treatment while awaiting further examinations that will determine the length of his absence. The expectation is that he could be available again for the round of 16. For Barcelona, his injury represents a significant concern, although the club remains optimistic that he will be fully fit for preseason once his vacation period concludes following the World Cup.

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