Hansi Flick and Barcelona fuming after losing Raphinha to injury

Barcelona are facing a tense five-week stretch without winger Raphinha after the Brazilian sustained an injury while on international duty, leaving head coach Hansi Flick and the club hierarchy incensed over the circumstances surrounding the setback.

Raphinha damaged a muscle during Brazil’s friendly against France in the United States, a match that took place at a pivotal juncture of the domestic campaign. According to Diario Sport, the reaction inside the Catalan club has been one of “total incomprehension.” Officials are struggling to accept that their star forward was required to undertake what they describe as a “marathon” trans-Atlantic trip for what they deem a “meaningless” exhibition game.

The 27-year-old had already battled fitness issues this season, heightening Barcelona’s frustration that he was fielded from the start by Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil side. With decisive La Liga fixtures and Champions League encounters looming, the loss of one of their primary attacking outlets has ratcheted up pressure on Flick’s squad at the worst possible moment.

Sources close to the coaching staff say Raphinha’s injury has become “the straw that breaks the camel’s back,” compounding the manager’s growing irritation over what he perceives as cavalier treatment of his players by several national teams this season. Although FIFA regulations could entitle Barcelona to compensation for the period the player spends on the sidelines, club chiefs insist financial recompense offers little solace when points and progression are on the line.

Medical examinations have been completed and an official statement confirming the estimated lay-off has been issued. Meanwhile, the Brazilian federation has provided an update containing what local outlets are calling “interesting claims,” though details have yet to be clarified.

For now, Flick must plan without one of his most dynamic attackers, and the clock is ticking as Barcelona prepare for a defining phase of the season.