Injured Barcelona star has a chance to return vs Osasuna; eyeing appearance in El Clasico

Raphinha is hoping he will be fit enough to at least play a few minutes against Osasuna, which will give him some rhythm needed to prepare for the big clash against Real Madrid.

Indeed, the former Leeds United star’s main objective will be to return to full fitness when Barcelona lock horns against Los Blancos in El Clasico.

The high-octane fixture is set to be played at Camp Nou on May 10, thus giving Raphinha more than two weeks to fast-track his recovery and make himself match-ready.

The Brazilian’s return could go a long way in boosting a Barcelona attack stifled by the injury of Yamal, who has been ruled out for the season.

Although Raphinha has not been in great form this year, his leadership and energy in the final third have always been invaluable for the Catalans.

In the meantime, the injuries to Raphinha and Yamal should bode well for lesser-used Barcelona stars such as Roony Bardghji, who is expected to receive more minutes in the coming matches.