The club have been managing his minutes.
Barcelona forward Raphinha has reportedly been playing through the pain barrier in recent weeks for Hansi Flick’s side.
According to Catalunya Radio, the Brazilian was initially a doubt for Sunday’s Super Cup final against Real Madrid due to a thigh issue but was eventually passed fit to play and scored twice in a 3-2 win.
The report says Raphinha has been suffering from some thigh discomfort since the turn of the year which has seen the medical staff limit his game time.
Raphinha only played just over an hour against Espanyol in Barcelona’s first match of 2026 and also came off at about the same time in the win over Athletic at the Super Cup.
The Brazilian was still feeling discomfort after the match, which led to doubts about his involvement against Madrid, but he was cleared to play after discussions with the medics and Hansi Flick.
All signs therefore point to Raphinha getting a rest later today when Barcelona face Racing in the Copa del Rey.
Flick is expected to name a strong team for the match but could look to Roony Bardghji or Marcus Rashford to come into the starting XI in place of Raphinha.
Category: General Sports
