Brazil winger Raphinha was forced off in the 40th minute of Tuesday's friendly against Haiti after picking up an injury, the latest in a series of physical setbacks that have dogged his career. The 27-year-old left the pitch visibly frustrated, and early assessments suggest the problem is muscular, though the club and national team have not yet confirmed the severity.
What happened against Haiti
Raphinha started the match at São Januário in Rio de Janeiro but pulled up during a sprint down the right flank. He signaled to the bench immediately and was replaced by Vinícius Júnior. Brazil went on to win 4-0, but the focus quickly shifted to the winger's condition. Team doctors examined him on the sideline before he headed to the dressing room for further tests.
A pattern that keeps returning
This is not an isolated incident. Raphinha has struggled with muscle injuries over the past two seasons, missing a combined 14 matches for Barcelona during the 2023-24 campaign alone. Each time he returns, there is hope the problem is behind him. Each time, a new strain or tear emerges. The recurrence has become a major talking point inside the club's medical staff and coaching team.
At 27, Raphinha should be entering his prime years, but the cumulative toll of repeated nags risks shortening that window. His game relies on explosive acceleration and sharp changes of direction — the very movements that stress hamstrings and adductors. If his body can no longer absorb that load week after week, his effectiveness drops.
What Barcelona has to weigh
Barcelona signed Raphinha from Leeds United for an initial €58 million in 2022. He has been a regular starter under Hansi Flick, contributing goals and assists on the right wing. But the club is operating under tight financial constraints and cannot afford a player who is unavailable for long stretches.
The injury history already influences transfer planning. Barcelona's board has discussed whether to bring in another winger during the January window to share the load. Raphinha's contract runs through 2027, but if the injuries persist, the club may have to consider reducing his minutes or even listening to offers next summer.
For now, the immediate concern is his recovery timeline. Brazil's medical staff will share their findings with Barcelona in the next 24 hours. The player himself is expected to undergo an MRI once he returns to Catalonia. Until then, both club and country are left waiting — and hoping — that this one is not as bad as the last.
