Raphinha leaves Brazil squad immediately after minor muscle issue

Raphinha has left the Brazil camp with immediate effect after suffering a minor muscle issue in Tuesday’s friendly against Australia.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has decided not to take any risks with the Barcelona winger, who has returned to his club for further assessment and treatment.

The 29-year-old will miss Brazil’s upcoming friendly against India, their final match before domestic club football resumes.

Fabrizio Romano reported that Raphinha had withdrawn from the squad to avoid aggravating the problem.

“Raphinha leaves Brazil camp and returns to Barcelona with immediate effect.

“Decision follows minor muscle issue suffered vs Australia on Tuesday.

“Not seen as serious/long injury but no risks will be taken, as @cahemota reports.”

Reports in Spain say Raphinha wanted to return to Barcelona as quickly as possible so he could be treated by the club’s medical staff.

The timing will concern Barcelona, who are due to face Galatasaray, Paris Saint-Germain and rivals Real Madrid in the coming weeks. Manager Hansi Flick will hope Raphinha can recover without any further setback.

Raphinha has made a strong start to the season for Barcelona, scoring 12 goals and providing three assists in seven La Liga appearances.

He has also scored 11 goals and supplied nine assists for Brazil, but his latest injury has brought his international involvement to an early end.

The winger missed 25 games for club and country during the 2025-26 campaign because of various hamstring injuries. Barcelona will now hope the latest muscle problem is minor and does not lead to another extended absence.