Raphinha injury update: Barcelona forward released from national team camp; will miss India friendly

Raphinha injury update: Barcelona forward released from national team camp; will miss India friendly Barcelona have received a cautious boost over Raphinha after the forward was released from Brazil duty following a thigh issue picked up during the international break. Raphinha will return to Barcelona and miss Brazil’s upcoming friendly against India after medical tests showed no muscle injury.  According to Globo , examinations found a small amount of swelling and fluid in his thigh, prompting Brazil to take no chances with the Barcelona winger. The decision comes after Raphinha was substituted at half-time during Brazil’s 4-2 victory over Australia in Brisbane.  He had started the game and scored Brazil’s second goal from the penalty spot before being withdrawn. Raphinha injury tests provide relief for Barcelona There had been immediate concern at Barcelona when Raphinha failed to appear for the second half against Australia, particularly given the physical demands of his international schedule. Raphinha will not play against India. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images) The forward had reported a puncture in his right thigh, but the initial medical examinations have provided a more encouraging picture. The tests have ruled out, at this stage, a major rupture in the affected muscles. The first conclusions instead point towards a minor issue, with swelling and fluid detected in the thigh.  That has allowed both Brazil and Barcelona to approach the situation with greater caution rather than facing the prospect of a significant layoff. The decision to remove Raphinha at half-time was also understood to have been precautionary, as the player and the Brazilian Football Confederation’s medical staff agreed not to take unnecessary risks with the affected area. Brazil release Raphinha ahead of India friendly Brazil have now opted to release the Barcelona forward from the remainder of their camp.  He will therefore miss the upcoming friendly against India and travel back to Spain to continue his recovery. Raphinha’s injury is not a major concern. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images) The CBF has chosen a conservative approach with Raphinha, allowing him to recover at the Ciutat Esportiva rather than remain with the national team. Once he arrives in Barcelona, the club will take direct control of his rehabilitation and medical supervision.  Barça’s medical department is already in contact with the CBF and will assess the player once he returns to the club. For Hansi Flick and his coaching staff, the early indications provide some relief.  Barcelona are waiting for definitive medical information, but the expectation at this stage is that Raphinha’s problem could be limited to an overload or slight contracture rather than a serious muscle injury.