Raphinha still an injury doubt for Copa del Rey semi-final vs Atletico Madrid

Barcelona forward Raphinha has revealed that he hasn’t recovered completely from injury ahead of Thursday’s Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.

The 29-year-old has missed the last two games against Albacete and Mallorca due to an adductor strain.

“I’m feeling better, we’re taking it day by day,” Raphinha said (h/t Mundo Deportivo). We’ll see if I’m ready for Thursday, but we’ll wait and see.

There are options, but we all know how injuries are. I can’t lie to you, I’d love to say I can play on Thursday, but I’m a bit short on fitness.”

It has been an injury-hit season for the Brazilian winger, who earlier missed nearly two months of action with a hamstring issue.

He has still been an influential figure for the Catalan giants, bagging 13 goals and five assists in 22 games.

Raphinha further solidified his reputation as a big-match player after scoring a brace in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final and final against Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid to lead Barca to the title.

Manager Hansi Flick vented his frustration about the Brazilian’s injury setback during the decisive phase of the season.

The German manager values Raphinha in attack for his defensive work rate, high pressing and leadership qualities.

Barcelona still have a quality attacking unit that has thrived without the Brazilian in recent games.

The onus will be on Lamine Yamal to spearhead Barca’s attack. He has been in sublime form after scoring in the last five consecutive games.

Marcus Rashford will likely retain his place on the left wing, and his impressive consistency has been pivotal to Barca this season.

Strikers Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski have consistently delivered the goods. They have scored 29 goals between them this term.