Raphinha injury update: Barcelona winger's return date after hamstring problem confirmed

Raphinha was the latest injury casualty of the March international break.

After several big-name players withdrew from national-team duty due to fitness concerns, including Arsenal pair William Saliba and Gabriel, the latter's Brazil teammate suffered a hamstring issue during the Selecao's 2-1 friendly loss to France.

The winger is now set to miss some key games in Barcelona's season, although he should return before the campaign has concluded — and in time to make Brazil's World Cup roster.

The Sporting News has the latest on his injury.

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What is Raphinha's injury?

Barcelona confirmed on March 27 that Raphinha had suffered an injury to the biceps femoris of his right leg. It's a muscle at the back of the thigh, part of which forms the hamstring group.

Barca said the injury had been diagnosed by Brazil's medical staff after the player had complained of discomfort during the loss to France the day before.

"The player is returning to Barcelona to begin the appropriate treatment. The estimated recovery time is five weeks," the club said.

When will Raphinha be back?

If Raphinha is out for five weeks as estimated, he will return around the time of Barca's La Liga match against Osasuna, currently slated for May 3.

Crucially, he would also be available to face Real Madrid in a potentially title-deciding Clasico a week later.

However, Raphinha is likely to miss at least six games for the Catalans in all competitions, three of which are against Atletico Madrid.

Games Raphinha will likely miss