Barcelona will be without Raphinha when they face Real Madrid in the first El Clasico of the season on Sunday.
The Brazilian winger has suffered a setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him since September 25, when Barcelona defeated Real Oviedo.
Although the 28-year-old had returned to full training earlier this week and was expected to make the bench at the Santiago Bernabéu, he experienced discomfort during Friday’s session, ruling him out of the crucial tie.
Club sources indicate that it may take a few more weeks before Raphinha returns to competitive action.
Real Madrid currently hold a two-point lead over Barcelona heading into the encounter. Notably, Barcelona won all four meetings between the two clubs last season.