Raphinha Likely to Miss Rest of World Cup After Hamstring Injury

Brazil and Barcelona winger Raphinha has suffered another injury setback, raising concerns that his 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign may be over and increasing uncertainty about his club future.

The 29‑year‑old was forced to leave the field in the 40th minute of Brazil’s 3‑0 win over Haiti after feeling discomfort in his right thigh.

Xavi Hernandez Navarro of ARA reported that medical tests confirmed a hamstring tear, involving the same muscle group that has repeatedly troubled the Brazilian over the past year.

An official statement has not yet been issued, but the injury is expected to sideline him for the rest of the tournament.

The setback is a further blow for both Brazil and Barcelona, as Raphinha has endured a frustrating spell marked by recurring fitness problems.

His problems began in September when he suffered a hamstring injury against Real Oviedo. He was initially expected to return for the El Clásico against Real Madrid, but he relapsed shortly before the match, and Barcelona coach Hansi Flick later admitted the club had rushed his recovery.

Raphinha returned in late November in a match against Chelsea after two months on the sidelines, but another muscular problem emerged at the end of January. He returned again in February, only to suffer yet another injury during international duty with Brazil in March, which caused him to miss the decisive stages of Barcelona’s Champions League campaign.

Despite the repeated setbacks, the winger has posted impressive statistics, scoring 21 goals and providing seven assists in 33 appearances this season.

Raphinha’s latest injury comes amid growing speculation about his future. Clubs in Saudi Arabia are reportedly maintaining strong interest in the Brazilian, with their financial muscle giving them hope of l