Raphinha Sustains Thigh Injury During Brazil National Team Duty

Raphinha is sidelined with a thigh muscle strain, according to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on June 20, 2026. While Portuguese outlet Record reports a projected return in two weeks, the CBF has not provided an official timeline. Raphinha remains part of Brazil’s World Cup squad despite the injury.

The CBF confirmed the muscular injury following medical examinations conducted during the player’s time with the national team. The diagnosis specifies a strain of the thigh muscle, a condition that has previously impacted the attacker’s availability.

What is Raphinha’s current injury status?

Raphinha has been diagnosed with a thigh muscle strain, as confirmed by the CBF. CNN Brasil reported that the federation officially acknowledged the muscular injury, though specific details regarding the grade of the strain were not released in the primary statement.

The injury is not a new development for the player. R7 Esportes reported that this specific type of injury sabotaged Raphinha’s recent season with FC Barcelona, suggesting a recurring vulnerability in the thigh muscle.

When will Raphinha return to the Brazil squad?

There is a discrepancy between media reports and official federation statements regarding the recovery timeline. Record reports that Raphinha is expected to return to action in approximately two weeks.

However, GE reports that the CBF has not established a definitive deadline for the player’s return. This contrast suggests that while external sources are projecting a 14-day recovery, the national team’s medical staff is maintaining a more cautious, open-ended approach to his rehabilitation.

How does this affect Brazil’s World Cup roster?

Brazil is keeping Raphinha in the group for the duration of the tournament. ESPN Brasil confirmed that the national team updated Raphinha’s situation following his exams but decided to maintain the attacker in the World Cup squad.

The decision to keep him on the roster indicates the coaching staff believes a return is possible before the tournament concludes. However, R7 Esportes noted that the severity of the strain could potentially end Raphinha’s participation in the World Cup entirely.

The loss of the attacker creates a void in Brazil’s offensive rotation. His absence forces the technical staff to rely on alternative wingers to maintain the team’s tactical structure during the initial phases of the competition.