Raphinha’s absence from Barcelona’s upcoming match against Real Betis has been confirmed, shifting attention to whether the Brazilian winger will be fit in time for the two heaviest fixtures on the Catalan side’s calendar—against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
According to the Catalan newspaper Sport, the coaching staff led by Hansi Flick does not want to rush the player’s return, opting instead to gradually increase his training workload after he began working with the ball on the pitch.
Raphinha suffered muscle swelling in the right hamstring while on duty with the Brazilian national team. Although tests ruled out a severe tear, Barcelona preferred to rule him out of the Getafe and Galatasaray matches before extending his absence to the Betis clash.
Barcelona travel to face the Andalusian side on Saturday, October 17, before visiting Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday, October 20, ahead of hosting Real Madrid in El Clásico on Sunday, October 25.
Barcelona hope to have Raphinha back against Paris, but his participation is not yet guaranteed and will depend on his response upon returning to group training and his ability to push the tempo without feeling any muscular discomfort.
Flick is proceeding with extra caution regarding the Brazilian’s condition after he suffered three injuries last season, especially given that the 29-year-old is Barcelona’s top scorer this season with 12 goals in the first seven league rounds and 14 goals across all competitions.
Barcelona managed to overcome Getafe and Galatasaray in his absence, capitalizing on their varied attacking options; however, Raphinha’s impact in pressing, off-the-ball movement, and clinical finishing makes him a crucial piece for both the Paris clash and El Clásico.
Thus, Raphinha’s availability against Paris Saint-Germain appears possible but uncertain, while his chances of facing Real Madrid are significantly higher—provided he suffers no setbacks during this decisive week of his rehabilitation.
