Barcelona star forward’s recovery going well, could return against Shakhtar Donetsk

Barcelona’s current crop of injuries leaves the team severely crippled in both the midfield and attacking departments. The international break, however, has come at the optimal time and provides a window of hope to the manager.

One of the players who best benefitted from the timing of the hiatus is Raphinha. The Brazilian winger sustained a thigh injury in the game against Sevilla, and initial reports placed his recovery period at one month.

Recovery on track

Barcelona have always been optimistic of having Raphinha back in action after the international break. It was only a question of whether or not the player recovers as expected.

According to reports from SPORT, the former Leeds United star’s recovery is going well. However, he might not make it in time for the team’s first game after the international break against Athletic Club.

The 26-year-old, however, has a good chance of making it back for the clash against Shakhtar Donetsk at home on the 25th of this month in the UEFA Champions League.

He is almost a certain contender to start in El Clasico.

Unforgiving competition

Ousmane Dembele’s departure from Barcelona in the summer was expected to open the doors for Raphinha to take over as a regular starter at the club. However, that is far from the case.

Lamine Yamal’s rise to prominence has caught eyes all over the world, and the youngster is now one of Xavi Hernandez’s most trusted options down the right.

Further, Ferran Torres’ resurgence only adds to the manager’s dilemma, for he now has three options worthy of a starting position.

So far this season, Raphinha has made three starts and six appearances for the Catalans this season, scoring two goals and providing one assist in the process. Further, he averages 1.2 key passes and a shot on target per game.