Key Barcelona winger joins squad in England; unlikely to feature in first two friendlies

Key Barcelona winger joins squad in England; unlikely to feature in first two friendlies Raphinha has joined FC Barcelona’s pre-season preparations in England earlier today after completing his summer break. The Brazilian winger linked up with Hansi Flick and the rest of the squad at St George’s Park as the Catalans continue preparations for the new campaign ahead of their La Liga opener against Elche on 23 August. Return after injury-hit world Cup Raphinha arrives after a disappointing FIFA World Cup campaign with Brazil. He started the first two group-stage matches but was forced off after just 39 minutes of the second game against Haiti with a thigh injury to his right leg. He took no further part in the tournament, with Brazil also suffering an early exit after losing to Norway in the round of 16. Barcelona expect the winger to return fully recovered and ready to begin work immediately. Unlikely to play first two friendlies Despite his return being a big boost, journalist Nil Sola reports that, as things stand, Raphinha is unlikely to take part in Barcelona’s upcoming two friendly matches. The Blaugrana are set to play Birmingham City on July 31 before facing Preston North End on August 3. As things stand, it is unlikely that Raphinha will be ready to play in those matches, having joined the team only today. Flick wants the Ballon d’Or Contender back Meanwhile, the Brazilian’s priority is to rediscover the form he produced during the 2024-25 season, when his performances even placed him among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or. That is also one of Flick’s main objectives heading into the new campaign . During Flick’s first season in charge, Raphinha enjoyed the finest campaign of his career, producing outstanding numbers with 34 goals and 26 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions. Aiming to return to his best. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) Barcelona remained a more dangerous attacking side and pressed more effectively with the Brazilian on the pitch. However, injuries severely limited his contribution last season. Raphinha made only 33 appearances, scoring 21 goals after suffering two significant hamstring injuries. Special fitness programme prepared Both Flick and Raphinha have identified returning to his previous level as a major target for the coming season. To help achieve that, Barcelona’s new head of physical preparation, Benjamin Kugel, has designed an individual programme specifically for the Brazilian. The club hope the tailored fitness plan will allow the winger to remain fully fit throughout the campaign and return to the level that made him one of Europe’s most influential attackers.