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Why Is Raphinha Not Playing Tonight for Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid in the Champions League?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Pragjyoti Singh | Last updated Apr 8, 2026 3:00 PM ET

Barcelona will be without Raphinha for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Atletico Madrid.

The 29-year-old winger, a key player for the club this season, suffered an injury while on international duty with Brazil. Reports suggest he could be sidelined for five weeks.

After spending time in Brazil, Raphinha returned to Barcelona to begin his rehabilitation, aiming to return for the final month of the campaign.

Why is Raphinha Not Playing for Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid?

According to a statement released by the club, "Raphinha has a right hamstring injury, as confirmed by medical tests carried out by the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) following the discomfort he experienced during the Brazil v France match in Boston on Thursday."

The club further clarified the next steps for his rehabilitation, stating, "The player is returning to Barcelona to begin the appropriate treatment. The estimated recovery time is five weeks."

Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Sevilla FC.Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Following the injury, Barcelona sought financial compensation from FIFA. According to Diario Sport, the governing body will cover a portion of the club's costs for the duration of the player's absence under its protection programs.

Due to this timeline, the club expects to be without Raphinha for both legs of the Champions League quarter-final tie against Atletico Madrid, as well as their next four La Liga matches.

Manager Hansi Flick now faces a significant tactical challenge as he manages multiple injuries within the squad.

Along with Raphinha, midfielder Frenkie de Jong remains sidelined. However, the club expects the Dutchman to feature in some capacity during this weekend’s match against Espanyol.

Marc Bernal is another player the club will miss for the upcoming match against Atletico Madrid. The Spanish midfielder is currently nursing an ankle issue but is expected to be back for the second leg of the quarter-finals next week.

The quarter-final first leg between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid is scheduled to kick off at 3 p.m. ET in the United States.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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