Raphinha speeds up treatment and returns to the World Cup squad shows strong optimism behind the scenes
The search for Raphinha’s recovery to remain active with the Brazilian team in the World Cup had important developments last weekend. Without an official deadline for his return, the player intensified the treatment of a muscle injury in his right thigh, anticipating the return of the period off. His condition became a priority for the CBF medical team, mobilizing efforts for rapid improvement.
During Saturday (20) and Sunday (21), athlete number 11 was at the National Team’s training center in Morristown to continue his treatment. Unlike full-back Wesley, who left the friendly match against Egypt with an injury to his thigh adductor and was visibly limping, Raphinha has no difficulty moving around and has not been observed with limping in recent days.
The injury occurred during the initial stage of the game against Haiti. The attacker noticed discomfort on the back of his right thigh and promptly alerted the technical bench. Unable to continue, Rayan took his place. He began treatment while still on the bench shortly after leaving the field and continued with the care in the locker room.
The athlete underwent an MRI exam on Saturday, and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released an official statement confirming the diagnosis of the injury.
“This Saturday, the athlete Raphinha underwent an imaging test that confirmed a muscle injury in the posterior region of his right thigh. The player will follow an intensive treatment protocol, accompanied by the Brazilian National Team’s medical team, aiming for his recovery and return to activities in the shortest possible time.”
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Since the incident, the attacker has adopted a recovery method similar to that used for Neymar. This work involves a unified approach between the medical, physiotherapeutic and physical sectors of the Brazilian National Team. The tactic is to optimize the speed of recovery without putting the player’s physical integrity at risk, enabling progress every day.
One act by the athlete was particularly noticed behind the scenes: Raphinha gave up part of the rest given to the team, returning ahead of schedule to continue with his rehabilitation. This initiative highlights the player’s desire to be available to coach Carlo Ancelotti as quickly as possible. Despite the lack of an official timetable for his return, the Seleção’s medical team is doing their utmost to ensure that he can play again during the World Cup.
Lucas Paquetá’s words helped to clarify the situation. The midfielder expressed his apprehension regarding his teammate’s condition, but also expressed faith in his full recovery.
Paquetá stated: “As for time, we don’t pay much attention to that. We hope it’s as quick as possible. We already see him working intensively so that his recovery is as quick as possible. We’re rooting for him. The sooner he can return to help us, the better.”
Recent retrospect highlights the importance of prudence. In March, Raphinha suffered a very similar injury during a friendly against France. On that occasion, he did not participate in the Seleção’s subsequent game against Croatia and was absent from Barcelona for six matches. Full recovery took about five weeks.
However, a specific aspect generates great optimism in the Brazilian coaching staff this time: the player’s quick and positive response to treatment, added to the great commitment shown from the initial moments of the injury. While the Brazilian team prepares for the clash with Scotland, Raphinha’s efforts to return to active duty remain intense. The purpose is clear: to guarantee their presence in the World Cup and reintegrate themselves as a key player in Brazil’s attack for the decisive stages.
