Barcelona relieved as Raphinha avoids serious injury

Raphinha underwent tests at Barcelona's training ground on Friday after returning early from Brazil duty. The examinations confirmed the initial diagnosis of an oedema in the back of his right thigh.

The 29-year-old was substituted at half-time during Brazil's match against Australia on Wednesday after experiencing muscle discomfort. Given his previous fitness problems in the same area while on international duty, there were initial concerns that the injury could be more serious.

Brazil's medical staff subsequently confirmed the oedema and decided Raphinha should return to Barcelona rather than risk making the problem worse.

He arrived back in Spain on Thursday following the long journey from Australia and underwent further examinations the following morning. He spent just over an hour at Barcelona's Ciudad Deportiva.

The latest results have given Barcelona reason to be more optimistic, particularly because Raphinha has been one of their key attacking players this season. He has scored 14 goals during an outstanding start to the campaign.

Raphinha has not been ruled out of Barcelona's match against Getafe on October 10, but coach Hansi Flick is unlikely to take any unnecessary risks with the Brazilian.

Barcelona will only consider selecting him if he is fully fit. With a demanding schedule ahead, Flick and the club's medical staff are keen to avoid a premature return that could lead to a more serious setback.