Paquetá and Raphinha are in doubt for the Brazil national team’s quarterfinals. Muscle injuries have raised the alarm among the coaching staff and fans. Time is the greatest enemy in the recovery of both stars, who have already begun the arduous path back to the pitch.
The Brazil national team could face a significant problem for the World Cup quarterfinals. Star players Paquetá and Raphinha, crucial to head coach Carlo Ancelotti‘s tactical setup, have been sent to the medical department with muscle injuries that jeopardize their presence in upcoming matches. The CBF, learning from past experiences, is adopting a cautious and silent approach, avoiding predictions and focusing on the rigorous treatment of the athletes.
Intensive Treatment and Cautious Optimism
Both Paquetá and Raphinha are following an intensive treatment protocol, with daily physiotherapy sessions and medical examinations. Midfielder Lucas Paquetá left the match against Japan with a muscle injury in his left hamstring, a common type of injury in explosive football movements. Raphinha, on the other hand, got injured during the group stage against Haiti, and his return has been treated with more internal optimism.
Each Player’s Situation
While the outlook for Raphinha‘s return is more encouraging, with the forward already appearing in training with specific footwear, Paquetá‘s case is more concerning. The midfielder’s injury is more recent, and the recovery from muscle injuries, especially more severe ones, can take weeks. Sports doctor Ari Zekcer explains that Grade 1 injuries, such as a mild strain, can require up to ten days for recovery, a timeframe Raphinha has already exceeded.
The Threat of Serious Injuries
Football is a high-intensity sport, and hamstring muscle injuries are frequent, affecting players like Estêvão and Militão at crucial moments. A Grade 2 injury, which damages a significant portion of the muscle, can sideline an athlete for up to six weeks, while a Grade 3 injury, a complete rupture, requires months of recovery. The CBF reaffirms its commitment to the health of the players, ensuring that no step of the treatment will be skipped.
Paquetá’s Message and Expectant Fans
Amidst the uncertainty, Paquetá took to social media to send strength to the fans: “Faith… I’ve lived through this before.” The hope is that the midfielder will repeat his resilience and be able to return as soon as possible. Brazil anxiously awaits the outcome of these recoveries, hoping that Paquetá and Raphinha will be on the field for the quarterfinals, a match that could define the future of the Brazil national team in the competition. Should they advance, the team faces its next challenge on July 11.
