Raphinha set for Barcelona return as Brazil star shrugs off World Cup injury

Barcelona winger Raphinha is poised to rejoin first-team training later this month after recovering from the muscle injury that marred his World Cup campaign with Brazil, in a significant boost to new coach Hansi Flick ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The 29-year-old forward endured a difficult summer after suffering a hamstring problem during Brazil’s run at the 2026 World Cup, raising concerns over his availability for the early part of Barcelona’s new campaign.

But according to Spanish journalist Javi Miguel, Raphinha is now expected to link up with the Catalan side’s pre-season preparations on 27 July, in time to take part in the first phase of their training camp in England.

Barcelona camp in England to launch new era

Barcelona will hold an initial eight-day training camp in England as part of their build-up to the 2026-27 season, during which they are scheduled to play a friendly against Birmingham City on 31 July.

The trip is seen as an important staging post in Flick’s attempts to stamp his identity on the squad following his arrival as head coach. The German is expected to use the camp to assess returning internationals, integrate new signings and refine his tactical approach.

Raphinha’s anticipated return comes at a key moment, with the Brazilian determined to prove his fitness and secure a regular starting role under Flick after an injury-disrupted previous campaign.

Raphinha ‘not thinking of leaving’ despite Saudi links

Despite persistent speculation linking Raphinha with a move to the Saudi Pro League, the player and his representatives remain committed to staying at Barcelona, Miguel’s report says.

He confirmed that the winger and his camp “do not think about leaving” and are intent on continuing at the Camp Nou, even as rumours over a lucrative switch abroad continue to circulate.

Raphinha was hampered by a series of fitness setbacks last season, limiting his impact in crucial phases of Barcelona’s campaign. The former Leeds United forward now hopes a full pre-season will allow him to regain peak condition and re-establish himself as a key figure in Flick’s plans.

New faces expected – and one deal still pending

The England camp could also mark the first full involvement of new arrival Karim Adeyemi with the Barcelona squad. The highly rated forward is expected to begin pre-season preparations with the main group, offering Flick an additional attacking option alongside Raphinha.

However, the situation is less clear regarding Portuguese full-back Joao Cancelo. His participation in the camp depends on Barcelona completing the formalities of his transfer. The club are working to resolve the final details before he can be integrated into training.

De Jong future clouded by injury concerns

While Raphinha’s recovery offers positive news, uncertainty continues to surround Frenkie de Jong, whose return date remains undecided.

The Dutch midfielder is still undergoing medical assessment after sustaining a knee injury, and Barcelona’s medical staff have yet to set a clear timeline for his comeback to full training.

De Jong’s fitness will be closely monitored, given his importance to Barcelona’s midfield structure and Flick’s tactical blueprint.

Crucial season ahead for Brazil international

Raphinha, now 29, faces a pivotal season in his Barcelona career. With competition for places intensifying and a new coaching regime in place, his ability to stay fit and deliver consistently could prove decisive for both his long-term future at the club and Barcelona’s ambitions in domestic and European competitions.

His imminent return to the training pitch in England signals the start of that challenge – and offers Flick a timely lift as he begins to shape Barcelona for the season ahead.