Raphinha injury update: Why Brazil star will miss upcoming India friendly in Kolkata

Brazil will be without star forward Raphinha for their upcoming friendly against India in Kolkata after the Barcelona attacker was ruled out with a thigh injury.

Why is Raphinha not playing against India?

The 29-year-old was substituted at halftime during his side's 4-2 friendly win over Australia after complaining of discomfort in his right thigh.

Following the match, Raphinha underwent a medical examination and the scan detected a small muscular edema in the posterior region of his right thigh. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has therefore decided not to risk his fitness. The decision means Raphinha will miss Brazil’s historic friendly against India on October 3 in Kolkata.

However, the latest reports indicate that the problem is not currently being described as a serious injury. The CBF's decision to release him was explicitly described as a precaution aimed at allowing him to recover. Raphinha will return to Barcelona to begin treatment and further assessment.

What is an edema?

As per the Cleveland Clinic, when fluid builds up faster in parts of your body than it can drain out, it causes swelling. That’s what edema is. It’s a common issue, especially with injuries.

Edema can cause parts of the body to look swollen, skin looking like it is stretched, soreness in the affected area, weight gain, or even difficulty in mobility.

This condition can be caused by various reasons like inflammation from injuries or allergic reactions, pregnancy, chronic conditions, side effects of medications, alcohol misuse, etc.