Barcelona forward had discomfort after Atletico clash, will be fit to face Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona returned to winning ways in La Liga as they secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday afternoon.

Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the game after being set up by fellow forward Raphinha, who was one of the Blaugrana’s better performers on the day.

However, after the game, it emerged that Raphinha had suffered some discomfort during the match against Atletico Madrid. The winger was part of the starting lineup and played almost the entire game, before making way for Ansu Fati in stoppage time.

Javi Miguel of AS confirmed that Raphinha had felt some discomfort but also stated that the issue is nothing serious and the Brazilian international will be available for the next game against Rayo Vallecano.

Barcelona welcomed back both Pedri and Frenkie de Jong from injury in the match against the Rojiblancos.

They are also expected to be boosted by the return of Ousmane Dembele this week, with the Frenchman likely to make it in time for the Real Betis clash at least, if not for Rayo in midweek.

With Dembele’s return for the trip to Vallecas not guaranteed, Raphinha getting injured would have come as a blow for the Blaugrana.

However, as Javi Miguel states, there are ‘zero concerns’ about the discomfort he suffered and the former Leeds United winger is expected to be ready to face Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday night.

In his debut season with Barcelona, Raphinha has tallied a total of nine goals and ten assists from 42 matches across all competitions. The 26-year-old has filled in well for Dembele during the latter’s three-month injury absence.

However, Raphinha’s form had been on the decline in April until Sunday’s contest against Atletico Madrid, where he made a good impression, even though he was guilty of missing a simple chance.