Barcelona injury scare as Raphinha goes off for Brazil

Barcelona have been handed an injury concern during the international break after Raphinha was taken off at half-time of Brazil's friendly against Australia with a potential problem.

The Barcelona forward started Tuesday's match in Brisbane and wore the armband for the second of the two friendlies between the nations, but did not return for the second half.

CBF confirm right thigh discomfort

The Brazilian football federation confirmed the reason for the change.

"Suffering from discomfort in his right thigh, striker Raphinha was substituted at halftime," the CBF said in a statement.

No further details were available in the immediate aftermath, leaving both club and country without a clear picture of the extent of the problem.

How the injury may have happened

Raphinha had been involved in an entertaining first half that finished 2-2, scoring a penalty for Brazil.

Moments before the interval, though, he slipped and was down for a little while, which is potentially how he sustained the injury that led to his withdrawal.

The sight of him leaving the pitch will be the last thing Barcelona wanted to see during this international break, particularly given his history of hamstring problems. All at the club will now be hoping he has not suffered any kind of injury that would see him sidelined.

What Raphinha's form means for Barcelona

The timing is awkward for Hansi Flick. Raphinha has been in sensational form for Barcelona in the early weeks of the season, scoring 14 goals in all competitions and leading by example for the side.

A prolonged absence would remove the player who has set the standard for the club's attacking play so far this campaign, with Barcelona waiting on further news from the Brazilian camp.

SportsLigue