Raphinha lands in Barcelona as club prepares medical tests on Friday – report

Barcelona have welcomed Raphinha back to the club after he returned early from Brazil duty with a thigh issue. The forward is set to undergo medical tests on Friday as the team prepares to ascertain the full extent of his condition. Raphinha arrived in Barcelona from Brisbane via Dubai, with the long journey factoring into the timing of his medical assessments.

The club currently has a positive outlook on the situation, believing the problem is likely no more serious than the oedema detected by Brazil's medical staff. However, additional tests are required to confirm the diagnosis. Raphinha's international break was cut short when he experienced discomfort in his right thigh during Brazil's second friendly against Australia.

Despite playing both matches in Brazil, he was substituted in the second half due to the thigh problem, subsequently missing Brazil's match against India. Barcelona and Raphinha have been cautious about his arrival, keeping the news under wraps to avoid unnecessary attention at the airport. The final decision on his return to action will be made by head coach Hansi Flick, who will likely consider the results of the medical tests, prioritizing the team's cautious approach as the LaLiga season restarts.