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Brazil Star injured: Raphinha ruled Out of historic friendly against India in Kolkata
Fans of Indian Football, ISL & Raphinha, who have been eagerly awaiting a glimpse of Brazilian attacking flair.
Those fans will have to wait a little longer to see one of Seleção’s most in-form forwards, Raphinha.
FC Barcelona & La Liga star Raphinha, has been officially ruled out of the squad against India.
The highly anticipated India vs Brazil football friendly is scheduled for October 3 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan VYBK (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed on Wednesday that the 29-year-old winger will not travel with the squad after sustaining a right thigh muscle injury.
The news comes as a significant blow to the local organizers and the thousands of fans who had snapped up tickets within hours of them going on sale.
Despite his absence, the match remains a landmark occasion for Indian football. It marks Brazil’s first-ever senior international appearance on Indian soil.
The city of Kolkata is considered the home of Indian football. The city of joy has been engulfed in a carnival-like atmosphere all week.
With streets draped in the iconic yellow and green colors of the five-time World Cup winners, the fan craze is very much prevalent in the city.
How Did Raphinha get Injured?
Raphinha celebrating after scoring a goal against Australia.
Raphinha’s availability came into question on Tuesday during Brazil’s 4-2 friendly victory over Australia in Brisbane.
After a highly productive 45 minutes on the pitch, where he was central to Brazil’s attacking transitions, the number 10 complained of discomfort in his right thigh and was substituted at half-time.
Following the match, the player underwent a medical evaluation and imaging tests. The MRI scan detected a small muscular swelling in the posterior region of his right thigh.
In their statement, the CBF said “Athlete Raphinha underwent an imaging exam this Wednesday (30) which revealed a small muscle edema in the posterior region of his right thigh.
As a precaution and aiming for his prompt recovery, the player will be released from the Brazilian National Team. No athlete will be called up in his place for the friendly against India.”
The Tactical switch
Endrick & Vinicius Jr celebrating in Brazil’s match against Australia.
The Brazilian national team will complete their training sessions in Brisbane before flying to Kolkata on October 1.
The CBF has confirmed that they will not call up a replacement for the Barcelona star, meaning they will utilize their existing squad against head coach Khalid Jamil’s Indian side.
Without Raphinha to play centrally, Brazil is expected to deploy their young sensation Endrick to break down the Indian defense.
To watch Raphina’s goal against Australia in the 4-2 match, click here.
Endrick was subbed into the game in Raphina’s stead, where he played the remaining 45 minutes of the game.
As for the remaining wingers, Vini Jr’s position should remaing unchanged. It is AFC Bournemouth winger, Rayan who may not start the game. To replace him, Carlo Ancelloti may use the like of Chelsea winger Estêvão.
What does Raphina’s injury mean for FC Barcelona?
For Barcelona, the news is a relief disguised as a minor setback. Raphinha will return directly to Catalonia to begin his treatment and further assessment.
Given his stellar club form this season, having already registered crucial goals and assists in September, Barcelona’s medical staff will closely monitor his rehabilitation.
The club remains optimistic he will be fully fit ahead of their pivotal return to La Liga and UEFA Champions League action.
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