Barcelona fear the curse: Raphinha's international break concerns
Barcelona are worried about Raphinha's fitness as the Brazilian winger faces an exhausting international schedule that has previously led to injuries.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Diliff
Tension is mounting at Barcelona regarding the upcoming international break. Despite the exceptional form displayed by Raphinha this season, the club is concerned that his commitment to the Brazil national team poses a significant threat to his physical well-being.
The primary issue is the sheer intensity of the travel. The winger is expected to clock approximately 34,000 kilometres in the air—effectively circling the globe—to feature in three friendly matches against Australia and India. Within the club, this schedule is viewed as both physically taxing and unnecessary given the limited competitive stakes of the fixtures.
This anxiety is rooted in recent history. Raphinha’s previous two call-ups to the national squad ended with muscle injuries. A hamstring tear suffered in March sidelined him for five weeks, forcing him to miss critical matches in both the Copa del Rey and the Champions League against Atletico Madrid.
Losing such a vital attacking outlet would be a severe blow to Hansi Flick's plans. As the team continues its campaign, Barcelona officials are hopeful that the player can navigate this international window without falling victim to the same physical setbacks that hampered his availability in the past.