Barcelona are waiting for clarity on Raphinha after the Brazilian forward left the national team camp with discomfort in his right thigh, cutting short a trip that had taken him as far as Australia.
The Brazil captain arrived back in the Catalan city on Thursday, with Hansi Flick’s staff keen to establish whether the problem is merely a minor complaint or something more serious. Medical checks are expected on Friday, allowing the player time to recover from a journey of more than 20 hours, routed from Australia through Dubai.
Raphinha had been substituted during Brazil’s match against Australia after feeling the issue. The club want a detailed assessment of the oedema that prompted his early departure from international duty, particularly because the affected area is one that caused him repeated problems last season.
His fitness is an immediate concern at Barcelona. Raphinha has been among the most influential players in Flick’s strong start to the campaign, while also carrying the captaincy for Brazil during the international window. The forthcoming tests will determine whether Barcelona can expect a swift return or must prepare for a longer absence.
