Barcelona fans have reason to be cautiously optimistic as Brazilian winger Raphinha edges closer to a return for the blockbuster clash against Real Madrid. The 28-year-old has been sidelined since March after picking up his third injury of the 2025/26 season while on international duty with Brazil—a blow that disrupted Hansi Flick's plans during the most critical stretch of the campaign.

Without Raphinha, Barcelona have had to navigate some daunting fixtures, including a tense Champions League quarter-final against Atletico Madrid. His absence has been felt deeply, as the forward's relentless pressing, tireless running, and aggressive intensity make him one of Flick's most potent tactical weapons. But those very qualities also make him prone to muscular issues, which is why the club has taken an ultra-cautious approach to his recovery.

That caution was on full display during the recent match against Osasuna. Even as Barcelona struggled to break the deadlock late in the game, Flick refused to rush Raphinha back onto the pitch, prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term gain. It was a decision born from the understanding that the biggest fixture of the season was still on the horizon.

Now, the outlook is far brighter. Raphinha has been training with intensity throughout the week—even during scheduled breaks—and optimism is building inside the club. Sources suggest the Brazilian is finally ready to make his comeback against Real Madrid.

But don't expect him to start. According to La Vanguardia, Flick plans to introduce Raphinha from the bench, likely giving him 20 to 30 minutes in the second half depending on how the match unfolds. It's a careful balance: unleashing his energy when it matters most, without risking another setback. For a player whose game is built on high-octane effort, those final minutes could prove decisive in El Clásico.