Raphinha Close to Full Recovery, Set for Extended Break Before Barcelona Return

Barcelona winger Raphinha is on the verge of returning from a muscle injury he picked up during the 2026 World Cup group stage against Haiti, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Brazilian has been rehabbing and is now entering the final phase, but the Catalan club is taking a cautious approach. Raphinha was named on the bench for Brazil’s Round of 16 clash with Norway but never got onto the pitch as the Seleção were eliminated. While most of Barcelona’s squad are due back for pre-season training on July 13, the 28-year-old will be granted extra time off. The club wants him to fully recover both physically and mentally after a 2025/26 campaign disrupted by repeated injuries. Head coach Hansi Flick still views Raphinha as a key attacking piece, even after the summer arrival of winger Anthony Gordon. The plan is for Raphinha to rejoin the group later than his teammates but still have enough time to build fitness before the new season kicks off.