Barcelona have been dealt a fresh fitness blow just as their Copa del Rey quarter-final against Albacete looms, with star winger Raphinha ruled out for approximately one week due to a muscle overload in his right adductor. The Brazilian, who was withdrawn at halftime during Barça’s 3-1 La Liga victory over Elche at the weekend, will miss Tuesday’s pivotal clash in Ciudad Real as part of a cautious recovery plan.
The 29-year-old’s discomfort emerged late in the first half against Elche, prompting manager Hansi Flick to substitute him earlier than initially planned. Although there was early speculation that the issue was minor, Barcelona’s medical team confirmed Raphinha will be sidelined as a precautionary measure, with an expected return to full training later in the week, potentially allowing him to be available for this weekend’s La Liga fixture against Mallorca.
Raphinha’s absence deprives Barça of one of their most dynamic attacking threats. The Brazilian has been central to Barcelona’s forward play, contributing key goals and assists this season before the latest setback. His creative influence and direct threat on the right flank will be missed against Albacete, who themselves stunned Real Madrid in the previous round and will pose a tricky test at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte.