Barcelona forward likely to feature for only 20-30 minutes against Real Madrid
Barcelona forward likely to feature for only 20-30 minutes against Real Madrid Barcelona forward Raphinha has been out of action since March after suffering his third injury of the 2025/26 season during international duty with Brazil, an issue that significantly disrupted Hansi Flick’s plans during the most demanding stretch of the season. Since then, Barcelona have had to cope without one of the most intense and influential attackers in the squad. Raphinha has missed several key matches across both La Liga and the Champions League, including the difficult European quarter-final clash against Atletico Madrid.
Victim of his own style As reported before, Barcelona have been extremely cautious with his recovery process, fully aware of how physically demanding his style of play can be. The winger’s constant pressing, relentless running and aggressive intensity make him one of Flick’s most valuable tactical weapons, but those same qualities also increase the risk of muscular problems. That reality is one of the reasons why Flick decided against taking any risks with the Brazilian during the recent match against Osasuna.
Even with Barcelona struggling to break the deadlock late in the game, Flick refused to rush Raphinha back into action, preferring to protect the player’s fitness ahead of the club’s biggest fixture of the season. Barcelona will be cautious with Raphinha. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) Now, though, the situation appears much more positive .
Barcelona still cautious It is said that Raphinha has continued training strongly throughout the week, even during scheduled breaks, with optimism growing inside the club regarding his condition. Sources close to the club believe the Brazilian is finally ready to make his comeback against Real Madrid. However, as reported by La Vanguardia , instead of immediately throwing him into the starting lineup, Flick is expected to use Raphinha carefully from the bench, potentially giving him around 20 to 30 minutes during the second half, depending on the flow of the match.
The coaching staff sees this as the ideal balance between benefiting from his energy and avoiding unnecessary physical risks after such a lengthy absence. Notably, Barcelona need only a single point from El Clasico to officially secure the La Liga title, and having a player like Raphinha available in the closing stages could become decisive, especially in a tense and physically demanding encounter.