Brazil’s highly anticipated friendly against India in Kolkata will not feature Raphinha, after the Barcelona forward was ruled out because of a right-thigh muscle issue.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that medical imaging detected a small muscle edema in the back of Raphinha’s right thigh. As a precaution, he has been released from the national team and will return to Barcelona for further evaluation.
Raphinha Picked Up the Issue Against Australia
The injury concern emerged during Brazil’s 4-2 friendly victory over Australia. Raphinha started the match and scored from the penalty spot before being substituted at half-time after experiencing discomfort in his right thigh.
Brazil completed the victory after the break, with Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Jr contributing to the team’s second-half comeback.
Brazil Will Not Call Up a Replacement
The CBF has decided not to add another player to the squad for the India match. Raphinha will instead return to Barcelona, where he is expected to undergo further assessment.
The medical examination did not indicate a serious injury, but the decision to release him reflects the precaution being taken over the muscle issue.
India vs Brazil Set for October 3
The absence of Raphinha is a setback for fans who were hoping to watch the Barcelona star in Kolkata. Brazil will still arrive with several major names, including Vinicius Jr and Endrick, for the October 3 fixture.
The match at Salt Lake Stadium will be the first senior international meeting between India and Brazil, adding significance to the historic football occasion.
Focus Now Shifts to Brazil’s Remaining Stars
With Raphinha unavailable, attention will turn to the other attacking options in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. Vinicius Jr remains one of the headline names expected to attract attention during Brazil’s visit.
For Indian football, the fixture remains a major occasion despite Raphinha’s withdrawal. The match will give the national team an opportunity to face one of international football’s most prominent sides on home soil.