Raphinha: The extent of injury for the Barcelona’s Brazilian stalwart, unlikely to return for blockbuster Super Cup final against arch rivals Real Madrid

FC Barcelona might have one more player added to their infirmary when Brazilian winger Raphinha was subbed off the field last night against Osasuna, on the semifinals of Spanish Super Cup, played at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. According to latest reports, the winger is slated to miss the final against generational nemesis Real Madrid, which is scheduled on Sunday.

Raphinha- the Brazilian wizard

Raphinha has been one of the biggest names for Spanish giants FC Barcelona since last season, The former Leeds man was roped in by Xavi after swashbuckling performances for the English Premier League side, helping them to qualify in the Premier League from Championship. He has delivered some promising performances in his debut season, gaining Xavi’s trust, and quickly became a fan favorite. He was seen saving several games for Barcelona, owing to his exuberance and flashing runs across the flanks. With Dembele on the other side, their duo played a perfect foil for providing the ball in the middle towards Robert Lewandowski, as the Polish would often consider Raphinha as a stylish playmaker.

Compared to last season, and due to the rise of Joao Felix and La Masia youngster Lamine Yamal, Raphinha has experienced substantial reduction of game-time this season, as Xavi has often used him as a substitute in several games. Several rumors were in the air that maybe he would be offloaded on this transfer window, as the winger would be looking to increase his game time. To add to his woes, last night, in the game against Osasuna in Super Cup semifinal, he was taken off the field due to an apparent injury which saw him grimacing in pain, which indeed raised eyebrows within the dressing room.

A long stint on the sidelines?

With latest reports which has confirmed his unavailability, it seems that Raphinha might be forced on the sidelines for a lengthier duration, as his recovery would determine his comeback. After the match got over, Barcelona manager Xavi was potent enough to have a quick chat with the journalists saying Raphinha has suffered from a hamstring knock.

With his injury, Xavi would be without one of his trusted attackers on Sunday’s blockbuster final against arch rivals Real Madrid. Although Vitor Roque might be another important star who might get a feature in the game, Raphinha’s injury might not be good for Barcelona, who are currently running for their title defense, which is between Real Madrid and Girona at the present scenario. Both Ferran and Felix might get the nod to play in the starting eleven, as Roque would be used as a substitute later.