Raphinha set to miss rest of World Cup after harmstring injury

Brazil and Barcelona winger Raphinha has suffered another injury setback, raising fears that his 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign could be over and adding further uncertainty to his future at club level.

The 29-year-old was forced off in the 40th minute of Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti after experiencing discomfort in his right thigh.

According to Xavi Hernandez Navarro of ARA, medical tests have confirmed a hamstring tear, affecting the same muscle group that has troubled the Brazilian repeatedly over the past year.

Although an official statement is yet to be released, the injury is expected to rule him out of the remainder of the tournament.

The setback is another blow for both Brazil and Barcelona, with Raphinha enduring a frustrating spell plagued by recurring fitness issues.

His troubles began in September when he suffered a hamstring injury against Real Oviedo. Initially tipped to return in time for El Clasico against Real Madrid, he suffered a relapse shortly before the match, with Barcelona coach Hansi Flick later admitting the club had rushed his recovery.

Raphinha eventually returned in late November against Chelsea after spending two months on the sidelines, but another muscular problem struck at the end of January. He made his comeback again in February before suffering yet another injury during international duty with Brazil in March, causing him to miss the decisive stages of Barcelona’s Champions League campaign.

Despite the repeated setbacks, the winger has maintained impressive numbers. He has scored 21 goals and provided seven assists in 33 appearances this season.

Raphinha’s latest injury comes amid growing speculation over his future. Clubs in Saudi Arabia are reportedly maintaining strong interest in the Brazilian, with their financial muscle giving them hope of luring one of Barcelona’s key attacking players.

With injuries continuing to disrupt his career and lucrative offers reportedly on the table, the coming months could prove decisive for both Raphinha and Barcelona as the winger weighs his next move.

Vanguard News

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