Many fans are understandably frustrated with Raphinha following his recent injury. Softfootball monitored Barcelona’s 1–0 win over Rayo Vallecano and observed his intense pressing and aggressive style of play, which has now resulted in him being sidelined for five weeks.
Raphinha is expected to miss up to nine matches, including:
- Atlético Madrid (La Liga)
- Atlético Madrid (Champions League)
- Espanyol (La Liga)
- Atlético Madrid (Champions League return leg)
- Celta Vigo (La Liga)
- Getafe (La Liga)
- Potential Champions League semi-final
- Osasuna (La Liga)
- Potential Champions League semi-final
Barcelona are set to face Atlético Madrid in three crucial fixtures, including a vital La Liga clash where they are trying to maintain a gap over Real Madrid, as well as two Champions League encounters home and away.
Barcelona previously struggled in the first leg, losing 4–0 to Atlético Madrid when Raphinha was unavailable. This makes his current absence even more concerning, especially as the injury occurred during an international friendly, placing the team in a difficult position.
If Barcelona progress to the Champions League semi-finals, where they could potentially face Arsenal, playing without Raphinha would present a major challenge for Hansi Flick.
However, this situation presents an opportunity for Marcus Rashford to prove himself. In the recent international friendly on Friday, March 27, 2026, where England drew 1–1 with Uruguay, Rashford delivered an impressive performance. Softfootball believes he now has the chance to replicate that form at club level.
The coming weeks will be crucial, as Rashford looks to convince Barcelona to sign him permanently, potentially justifying a £30 million move and easing the impact of Raphinha’s absence.
