Barcelona winger Raphinha is facing a major setback in his bid to return in time for the highly anticipated El Clásico clash against Real Madrid.
According to reports from Spain, the Brazilian international has suffered a relapse during his recovery process, putting his participation in serious doubt ahead of the showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Raphinha had been working under the close supervision of the club’s medical staff after picking up a muscle injury earlier this month.
Barcelona were initially hopeful that he would recover in time for the big match, but his latest setback has raised new concerns.
Sources close to the team revealed that the winger felt discomfort during light training, prompting doctors to halt his rehabilitation sessions to avoid aggravating the injury further.
The news comes as a major blow for Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who is already dealing with several injury concerns in the squad. Star striker Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, and goalkeeper Joan Garcia are also nursing fitness issues ahead of the crucial fixture.
Since joining the club, Raphinha has been a key attacking outlet, providing creativity and pace down the left flank. His potential absence means Flick may have to turn to Lamine Yamal or Ferran Torres to fill the gap.
The El Clásico, set for October 26, is shaping up to be one of the defining matches of the 2024/2025 La Liga season, as Barcelona look to close the gap on league leaders Real Madrid.
