Barcelona’s packed February schedule has suffered an early setback after the club confirmed winger Raphinha will miss their midweek Copa del Rey tie against Albacete with a muscle injury.
The Brazilian captain is suffering from an “overload in the adductor muscle of his right leg,” according to an official statement released on Monday. While not considered a serious long term issue, the club has outlined a recovery timeline of around one week as a precaution.
The injury rules the 28 year old out of Wednesday’s cup fixture and places his availability for next weekend’s La Liga clash with Mallorca at the Camp Nou in serious doubt. It’s an untimely blow for manager Hansi Flick, who is entering a critical period with the team competing on multiple fronts.
Raphinha has been a consistent attacking outlet for the Catalans this season, and his absence will be felt. However, the club struck a pragmatic tone in their communication, acknowledging the squad’s depth. It is now down to Flick to find a solution, likely turning to options like Ferran Torres or the fit again Ansu Fati to fill the void on the flank.
With the title race neck and neck with Real Madrid and a cup quarter final place on the line, Barça can ill afford a prolonged absence for one of their key men. All eyes will now be on his recovery progress, with the hope he can return swiftly for the heavier challenges that lie ahead.
