Barcelona have received a timely boost in their push to secure the La Liga title, with encouraging developments surrounding the recovery of Raphinha.
According to recent updates from SPORT, the Brazilian forward has taken an important step forward in his rehabilitation process.
After weeks on the sidelines, he has now returned to on-pitch training, working at a noticeable level of intensity.
While he is still not fully integrated with the group, the progress suggests that his comeback is getting closer.
Difficult time for Raphinha
Raphinha has been training individually, focusing on regaining rhythm and match sharpness.
As per the outlet, the plan, if everything continues on schedule, is for him to gradually rejoin team sessions on a partial basis by the middle of next week.
The injury, which occurred during international duty with Brazil, came at a time when Barcelona were going through a demanding schedule, and his absence coincided with their exit from the UEFA Champions League.
Raphinha could return to action next month. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Despite that disappointment, the team has managed to maintain strong momentum domestically, tightening their grip on La Liga, helped in part by dropped points from Real Madrid.
From a physical standpoint, Raphinha’s recovery has exceeded initial expectations, having progressed smoothly through each phase of rehabilitation, showing no major complications.
His return to pitch-based work at this stage is a clear indicator that he is nearing full fitness.
There is a target in mind
Barcelona are aiming to have Raphinha available for the upcoming El Clasico on 10 May, a fixture that could potentially decide the title race.
While there is a slim outside chance he could feature earlier, possibly making the squad against Osasuna, that scenario remains unlikely given the careful management of his recovery.
Notably, this period has been one of the most challenging phases of Raphinha’s time at Barcelona, particularly from a psychological perspective.
Being sidelined during decisive moments of the season has tested his resilience. Now, though, there is daylight in sight.
