Barcelona president Joan Laporta has launched a sharp criticism of FIFA’s congested calendar after winger Raphinha suffered a right hamstring injury during Brazil’s international friendly against France on March 26.
The match, held at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, was a non-competitive friendly that Brazil lost 2-1. Raphinha was substituted at halftime after feeling discomfort, and the Brazilian medical team confirmed the hamstring issue the following day.
Raphinha is reportedly sidelined for an estimated five weeks, forcing him to miss a critical stretch of Barcelona’s season, including the Champions League quarter-final tie against Atlético Madrid.
Speaking to Mon Esport, he called the injury “a shame” and “infuriating,” reporting that the timing could hardly be worse, with Barcelona playing for major trophies. “It’s a friendly match, and one of the team’s best players suffers an injury,” he said.
Laporta was careful not to blame the player, acknowledging that professionals always give their all for their country. Instead, he pointed squarely at FIFA, demanding the governing body adjust its calendar to better protect players from top clubs.
“The problem is the crowded schedule,” he added.
Barcelona is now seeking financial compensation from FIFA for Raphinha’s absence, a move that emphasizes growing frustration among elite clubs over international friendlies.