Raphinha is back training with Barcelona and his return seems likely for the next matches in the League, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League, according to coach HansiFlick. The Brazilian striker, who suffered edema in his right leg after taking a penalty against Brazil at the end of September, has completed his recovery session and appears fit, easing Flick's concerns about his availability.
Raphinha's case is reminiscent of the incident last year, when a muscle injury in the same leg left him out of the Champions League quarterfinals against Atlético de Madrid and the Copa del Rey against Real Madrid. On that occasion, the player's absence contributed to Barça's elimination against Simeone's team. This time, unlike the previous season, the player has managed to overcome the problem without it affecting the group stage matches, although Flick expressed his frustration at the actual severity of the injury, which turned out to be greater than initially diagnosed.
The forward, who has 14 goals in eight games this season, has been a key piece in the club's offensive, surpassing figures such as RobertLewandowski and JuliánÁlvarez. However, his recent history shows that the muscles in his right leg remain vulnerable, with three episodes of tears or micro-tears during last season. For this reason, Flick has decided that Raphinha will be the first to adjust his workload to avoid a premature return.
Raphinha's style of play, characterized by constant high pressing, requires the player to be on the field for all 90 minutes. Flick has emphasized the need for the striker to maintain his pressing rhythm without compromising his recovery, as Barça depend on his energy to dominate possession and generate scoring opportunities. The coach has also stressed the importance of the player remaining on the field of play and not remaining in the stands with a frozen thigh.
With the season in full swing, Raphinha's presence will be crucial for Barcelona to continue competing in all competitions. The club expects the striker to fully recover and be ready for the upcoming games, while Flick works on a loading plan that will allow his new “9” to maintain his high level without risking a recurring injury.