Raphinha is set for a chance to feature in El Clasico after a long-awaited step forward in his recovery. The Brazilian winger has been sidelined with a hamstring injury he picked up during international duty in October 2026, but recent developments suggest he could be available for the showdown against Real Madrid.
According to sources close to the player, Raphinha has returned to partial team training this week. He completed a series of light drills with the group on Tuesday, marking his first involvement with the squad since the injury. The medical staff have given cautious optimism about his progress, though a final decision will not be made until later this week.
The 27-year-old has missed Barcelona’s last four matches across all competitions. His absence has been felt on the right flank, where the team has lacked the same direct running and creativity. Coach Hansi Flick has had to rotate options, but none have fully replicated Raphinha’s impact in the final third.
Barcelona face Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, October 26, 2026. The fixture is the first El Clasico of the season, and both sides are level on points at the top of La Liga. A win for either team would be a major statement in the title race.
Raphinha’s potential return comes at a crucial time. He has been one of Barcelona’s most consistent performers this campaign, registering four goals and three assists in the league before his injury. His ability to stretch defences and deliver from wide areas is exactly what Flick will need against a Real Madrid side that has kept three clean sheets in their last five home games.
The club have not confirmed whether Raphinha will be in the matchday squad. However, the fact that he has taken part in team training is a significant step. If he comes through the next two sessions without any reaction, he is expected to travel with the squad to Madrid.
Barcelona’s medical department have been cautious throughout his rehabilitation. They have avoided setting a fixed return date, preferring to monitor his response to each increase in workload. That approach now appears to be paying off, with the winger closing in on full fitness just in time for the biggest game of the season so far.
Raphinha himself is said to be desperate to play. He has been working extra hours at the club’s training ground, doing individual sessions to accelerate his recovery. Teammates have noted his determination in recent days, and his presence in the dressing room has lifted morale ahead of the trip to the Bernabeu.
If he does feature, it will likely be from the bench. Flick is not expected to risk him from the start given the intensity of the fixture and the nature of his injury. But even 20 or 30 minutes of Raphinha running at a tiring defence could be the difference in a game that often turns on individual moments.
Barcelona will make a final assessment on Friday morning. Until then, the club are keeping their cards close to their chest. But all signs point towards Raphinha being given the green light to play some part in El Clasico.
