Barcelona star Raphinha admits blame for injury relapses ahead of Chelsea encounter

The Brazilian was initially expected to recover from a hamstring issue in just three weeks, but a combination of over-eagerness and muscle fragility extended his absence.

Speaking ahead of Barcelona's Champions League trip to Stamford Bridge, Raphinha admitted: "I really struggled. There were very complicated moments, but those two months without playing, were difficult moments."

"I want to return to my 100 per cent," he added. "It was a muscular injury, you can feel great, but you can still relapse. I'm working to recover my best physical shape so I can help the team."

On his relapses, Raphinha was frank: "I've had two relapses; the first was my fault, I take responsibility for both, trying to get back on the pitch sooner, I made a mistake."

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick also addressed the issue. While defending his medical staff, he admitted, "In Raphinha's case, we made mistakes, but that's human nature."

Raphinha, now available again following his long layoff, stressed how much he missed the squad: "I've missed the team more than they've missed me, I want to give everything on the field, I hope I can help the team when I am on the field."

His return comes as a welcome boost for Barcelona, who have faced a growing injury crisis in recent weeks.