Raphinha Ruled Out of El Clásico as Barcelona Faces Injury Setback

FC Barcelona has confirmed that star winger Raphinha will miss Sunday’s highly anticipated El Clásico against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu due to a lingering hamstring injury. The Brazilian forward, who suffered the setback during a 3-1 La Liga win over Real Oviedo on September 25, has failed to recover in time despite initial optimism from the club’s medical staff. Raphinha skipped Friday’s training session and did not pass a fitness test, ruling him out of the marquee clash.

The 28-year-old has been a key contributor this season, recording five goals and four assists in nine La Liga matches, according to club statistics. His absence compounds Barcelona’s injury woes, with striker Robert Lewandowski also sidelined due to a hamstring tear sustained during international duty. Coach Hansi Flick will now rely on emerging talent Lamine Yamal and other squad options to face a Real Madrid side leading the league table by two points.

Raphinha’s injury, while not a relapse, highlights ongoing recovery challenges for the team. Barcelona hopes for his return post-international break, though no exact timeline has been provided. The stage is set for a tactical battle as both clubs navigate their respective injury crises.