Will Raphinha Ignite El Clasico? The Injury Saga and Barcelona's Dramatic Return Hope!

In the electrifying world of football, few rivalries burn as brightly as El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid. As the clash looms on October 26, 2025, at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu, all eyes are on one man: Raphinha. The Brazilian winger, a key pillar in Hansi Flick's revitalized Barcelona side, has been sidelined by injury, leaving fans in suspense. Could his potential return turn the tide in this high-stakes battle? Or will the Catalans face their arch-rivals without their explosive talent? This article delves into the details of his injury, expected comeback timeline, recent training appearances, and the broader implications for the match, offering a fresh perspective on what could be a defining moment in the season.

Raphinha's journey with Barcelona began in the summer of 2022, when he arrived from Leeds United in a deal worth around €58 million. From the outset, he brought flair, speed, and versatility to the Blaugrana's attack. Known for his dribbling prowess, precise crosses, and knack for scoring from unexpected angles, Raphinha quickly became indispensable. In the previous season, he notched 12 goals and 10 assists in La Liga, helping Barcelona secure vital points in their title chase. Under Flick's 4-3-3 formation, he's evolved into a dynamic force on the right flank, complementing stars like Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski. His ability to stretch defenses and create chaos makes him a nightmare for opponents, especially in big games.

However, injuries have been a recurring shadow in Raphinha's career. The latest setback struck on September 25, 2025, during Barcelona's La Liga encounter against Real Oviedo. In the second half, Raphinha felt a sharp pain in his right hamstring, forcing him off the pitch. Medical scans revealed a moderate tear in the biceps femoris muscle, a common issue for speedsters due to the intense demands of sprinting and sudden directional changes. Barcelona's official statement indicated an absence of approximately three to four weeks, but hamstring injuries often require cautious management to prevent recurrence. This wasn't his first rodeo; similar muscular problems plagued him in prior seasons, highlighting the physical toll of elite-level football.

The injury couldn't have come at a worse time. Barcelona, riding high under Flick, faced a packed schedule including Champions League fixtures and domestic clashes. Without Raphinha, the team's right-wing options thinned, relying on youngsters like Yamal and backups such as Ferran Torres. Statistics from his absence show a dip in offensive output: Barcelona's goals per game dropped by about 15%, and their crossing accuracy fell noticeably. In the Champions League win over Olympiacos, for instance, the attack lacked his trademark unpredictability. Flick himself noted the void, praising Raphinha's "unique energy" in press conferences. Meanwhile, the player maintained a positive outlook, sharing recovery updates on social media, emphasizing resilience with quotes like, "Injuries test us, but they don't define us."

Raphinha down with hamstring injury during the match against Real Oviedo 

As October progressed, speculation mounted about his return. Initial projections pegged mid-October as a potential comeback, but the medical team prioritized full recovery over rushing him back. Hamstring strains typically involve a phased rehabilitation: starting with rest and ice, progressing to strength exercises, and finally integrating light training. Barcelona's state-of-the-art medical facilities, including advanced physiotherapy and monitoring tech, played a crucial role. By early October, reports hinted at individual sessions, building anticipation among fans.

The turning point arrived on October 22, 2025—the current date—when Raphinha made a triumphant return to group training. Sources from within the club, including official Barcelona channels, confirmed he participated partially in the session alongside teammates like Ferran Torres. Images and videos from the training ground showed him engaging in ball work, albeit with caution to avoid overexertion. This appearance, just four days before El Clasico, sparked optimism. Club statements described it as a "positive step," with Flick expressing hope for his inclusion. However, he's listed as a doubt, pending final fitness tests. An MRI scheduled for later this week will provide clarity, but his presence on the pitch today suggests the recovery is on track.

This recent training sighting isn't just symbolic; it's a morale booster for a squad grappling with multiple injuries. Lewandowski remains out for 3-4 weeks with a similar issue, Gavi faces a four-month layoff, and Dani Olmo is sidelined for two weeks. Raphinha's potential availability could restore balance, allowing Flick to field a more potent lineup. Experts estimate his participation probability at 70%, based on similar recovery timelines for athletes of his caliber. If cleared, he might start on the bench to manage minutes, gradually ramping up to avoid relapse.

Raphinha back in Barcelona training session

Zooming in on El Clasico, Raphinha's role could be pivotal. Real Madrid, led by Carlo Ancelotti, boasts a solid defense but has shown vulnerabilities this season. Raphinha's history against Los Blancos is impressive: in past encounters, he's scored twice and provided three assists, often exploiting spaces with his pace. His ability to deliver in clutch moments—think curling shots or incisive passes—could disrupt Madrid's rhythm. For Barcelona, trailing in the league standings, a win would be a statement. Without him, the attack might lean too heavily on Yamal, risking burnout for the teenager. Tactically, Flick could deploy Raphinha in a counter-attacking setup, capitalizing on Madrid's high line.

Beyond the immediate match, this injury episode underscores broader themes in modern football. The congested calendar, with international breaks and multiple competitions, amplifies injury risks. Raphinha, also a Brazil international, missed national team duties, adding to his frustration. Yet, his comeback narrative embodies perseverance. In interviews, he's spoken about mental strength, drawing from family support—his young son Gael even inspired a new goal celebration, mimicking the child's joyful gestures.

Historically, El Clasico has witnessed dramatic returns. Recall Lionel Messi's heroic comeback in 2017, scoring a last-gasp winner despite fitness concerns. Could Raphinha script a similar tale? The odds favor it, given his form pre-injury. In his last five games before the setback, he contributed four goals and three assists, earning plaudits as Barcelona's "unsung hero." If he features, expect fireworks; if not, Barcelona's depth will be tested.

To quantify his impact, consider these stats: Raphinha averages 2.5 key passes per game, with a 55% dribble success rate. Against Madrid, his expected goals (xG) involvement spikes, making him a game-changer. Barcelona's win probability in Clasicos with him starting hovers around 45%, versus 30% without. These figures, drawn from advanced analytics, highlight why his fitness is the talk of the town.

Raphinha celebrating a goal with his signature gesture

Looking ahead, managing Raphinha's workload post-return will be key. With the season's second half looming, including more Champions League action, rotation is essential. Flick's staff will monitor his hamstring closely, incorporating preventive measures like customized training regimens. For fans, his story is inspirational—a reminder that setbacks can fuel comebacks.

In conclusion, Raphinha's likelihood of featuring in El Clasico remains tantalizingly uncertain but increasingly promising. His hamstring injury on September 25 sidelined him for nearly a month, with an initial return eyed for mid-October. Today's training return on October 22 injects hope, positioning him as a potential starter or substitute. Whether he dazzles at the Bernabeu or watches from the sidelines, his saga adds intrigue to an already epic rivalry. As the clock ticks down to October 26, one question lingers: Will Raphinha be the spark Barcelona needs to conquer Madrid? Only time—and that final fitness check—will tell.