The Brazilian missed out on Sunday’s clash away defeat to Real Sociedad but there were positive signs on Monday
Raphinha has trained with the group on Monday morning, giving Barcelona an immediate boost ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League trip to face Slavia Prague and easing concerns after a weekend that exposed how much the winger has become central to the team.
The Brazilian forward took part in the recovery session at the Ciutat Esportiva despite heavy rain, while most of the starting players from the previous match remained inside completing gym work.
His return comes after missing the trip to San Sebastián due to a heavy knock to his right leg, an absence that proved costly as Barcelona’s run of eleven consecutive victories came to an end.
The timing of Raphinha’s recovery could hardly be better for the team, who lost 2-1 at Real Sociedad. Beyond his attacking output, the winger has emerged as one of the side’s leaders, providing intensity and personality during a demanding stretch of the season.
Flick regains key option as qualification race tightens
Hansi Flick is now expected to be able to count on Raphinha for the trip to the Czech Republic, a match that carries significant weight in Barcelona’s European campaign.
The Brazilian is fully recovered and expected to play a central role as the team pushes to finish inside the top eight of the Champions League league phase and avoid the playoff round.
That objective remains achievable, but Barcelona have little room for error. To secure a top-eight finish, they must win their final two matches against Slavia Prague and FC Copenhagen and hope that several teams above them drop points over the remaining matchdays.
Raphinha’s return is particularly important because Barcelona will be without Lamine Yamal, who is suspended after accumulating yellow cards. The absence of the young winger removes one of the side’s main attacking threats, increasing the importance of experienced players stepping up.
Everything points to Swedish forward Roony Bardghji replacing Lamine in Prague. Bardghji has already shown he can handle responsibility when called upon, with his performance in the Supercopa de España semi-final against Athletic Club standing out as his most convincing display so far.