Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti has provided an update on Raphinha after the Barcelona winger came off at half-time during Thursday’s friendly loss to France.
Raphinha Injury Scare: Brazil Boss Confirms Muscle Issue
The 26-year-old started the match at the Stade de France but did not reappear for the second half.
Reports indicate that Raphinha felt some minor discomfort in his muscle just before the interval, prompting the coaching staff to make a change as a precautionary measure.
Ancelotti confirmed after the game that the player experienced a physical issue and will now undergo further assessment.
“Raphinha played very well, then he had a problem at the end of the first half and we had to change him,” Ancelotti said.
“His muscle bothered him a little, and I think they’re going to evaluate him tomorrow.”
The update will cause concern at Barcelona, who face a crucial run of fixtures following the international break.
The Catalan club will hope the issue proves minor and does not sideline the Brazilian for an extended period.
Raphinha has dealt with several fitness setbacks throughout the season but had rediscovered his best form before joining up with the national team.
He delivered a stunning hat-trick against Sevilla in La Liga and followed that up with two goals and two assists in Barcelona’s Champions League victory over Newcastle.
His recent performances have made him a key figure in manager Flick’s plans, and any absence would represent a significant blow as Barcelona push for success in both domestic and European competitions.
The Brazilian federation is expected to conduct medical tests on Friday to determine the severity of the issue.
Barcelona’s medical staff will remain in close contact with the national team to monitor the situation.
For now, both club and country will wait anxiously for the results, with Ancelotti expressing hope that the substitution was purely a preventive measure rather than a response to a more serious injury.
