Mansion Sports – Barcelona are reportedly preparing official action against FIFA following the serious injury suffered by key winger Raphinha during the international break.

The Brazilian forward is expected to be sidelined for a considerable period, leaving the Catalan giants frustrated as they enter a crucial phase of the season.

Blaugrana Anger Over the Impact of the International Break

Barcelona are reportedly angered after Raphinha returned from international duty with a right hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out for approximately five weeks.

The injury occurred during Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to France in a friendly match in Foxborough.

The club’s medical team confirmed the severity of the injury on Friday, triggering reports and frustration within the offices at Spotify Camp Nou.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Blaugrana intend to formally submit a complaint to FIFA to address the situation and express their anger over an injury that occurred thousands of miles away in a non-competitive match.

Compensation for the Catalan Giants?

While the sporting loss is the primary concern for Hansi Flick, Barcelona are entitled to financial compensation through the FIFA Club Protection Programme.

This scheme provides payments to clubs when players suffer injuries while on international duty and are absent for more than 28 consecutive days.

Given Raphinha’s estimated five-week absence, the governing body is obligated to provide compensation.

Based on current calculations and the length of recovery, Barcelona could receive approximately €144,000 (£125,000/$166,000) in compensation.

However, this figure is considered very small by the club’s management as it does not match the impact of losing one of their most productive attackers during a series of important matches in domestic and European competitions.

Flick’s Tactical Plans Disrupted

The timing of this injury is highly unfavorable for Hansi Flick, who has relied heavily on the contributions of the 29-year-old this season.

Raphinha has delivered outstanding performances, particularly with a clinical hat-trick against Sevilla FC and two goals in a 7-2 home victory over Newcastle United before the break.

Without his work rate and sharpness, the German coach must now find a way to navigate a demanding April schedule with a reduced attacking line.

Key Matches Raphinha Will Miss

The most significant impact of this injury is Raphinha’s absence in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. He is certain to miss both legs against Atletico Madrid scheduled for April 8 and April 14.

If Barcelona progress, Raphinha could also miss the first leg of the semi-finals, and possibly even the second leg.

Additionally, his recovery timeline means he is likely to miss five important La Liga matches as Barcelona attempt to maintain their position at the top of the standings.