Overview
- Raphinha was withdrawn at half-time of Brazil’s friendly with Australia after reporting right-thigh pain and had scored a first-half penalty before leaving the match.
- The CBF said imaging detected a small muscular oedema with some swelling and fluid in his right thigh and that initial tests do not show a major muscle rupture.
- Brazil released Raphinha from national team camp and he will miss the October 3 friendly with India so he can return to Barcelona for club-led assessment and rehab.
- Barcelona’s medical staff are already in contact with the CBF and will decide his availability for upcoming club fixtures once they complete further scans and checks.
- The episode raises concern at Barcelona because Raphinha has had multiple right-side tendon and muscle injuries earlier this year, and some media reports say the club is frustrated with Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti’s use and communication about the player.