Laporta Critiques FIFA's International Calendar After Raphinha Injury
Synopsis
Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, criticizes FIFA for a poorly structured international calendar after Raphinha's hamstring injury during a friendly match. This injury raises concerns for the club's upcoming crucial fixtures, highlighting the need for better scheduling that respects club commitments.
Key Takeaways
Joan Laporta criticizes FIFA for its scheduling.
Raphinha's injury impacts Barcelona's title race.
Barcelona leads La Liga with 73 points.
Raphinha expected to miss crucial matches for about five weeks.
The need for a better international calendar is emphasized.
Barcelona, April 2 (NationPress) Joan Laporta, the president of the renowned Spanish football club FC Barcelona, has expressed his discontent with FIFA regarding what he deems a cluttered and mismanaged international calendar. This criticism follows an unfortunate hamstring injury sustained by Raphinha during his international duty with Brazil.
The injury took place in a friendly match against France, which leaves Barcelona without one of their most dynamic attackers at a pivotal moment in the season.
Laporta's remarks highlighted the detrimental impact of injuries occurring in non-competitive matches, emphasizing that FIFA should prioritize clubs when scheduling international events.
“Raphinha's injury is regrettable. We need FIFA to create an international calendar that considers the competitions major clubs are involved in,” Laporta stated.
“In a friendly match, losing one of our key players to injury is frustrating. Players are professionals who give their all for their nation, but the issue lies with the overcrowded schedule at this critical time in the season. It’s incredibly frustrating,” he continued.
The club's medical staff has projected that Raphinha will require approximately five weeks to recover, sidelining him for several important matches.
Head coach Hansi Flick now faces a substantial challenge in team selection, as Raphinha is expected to miss both legs of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Atlético Madrid and multiple crucial La Liga matches, where the team is in a fierce title contest with Real Madrid.
This season, Raphinha has been an exceptional performer, becoming a central figure in the team’s attacking strategy. His goals and assists have significantly contributed to Barcelona's strong domestic and European campaign.
Currently, FC Barcelona holds the top spot in La Liga with 73 points from 29 matches, while Real Madrid trails closely behind with 69 points. The four-point margin could quickly diminish if Barcelona fails to secure points in their upcoming fixtures.
Point of View
It's clear that Laporta's remarks underscore a growing concern among football clubs regarding player welfare in light of international commitments. The balance between national pride and club obligations continues to create tension in the football world.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Raphinha suffer?
Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Brazil in a friendly match against France.
How long is Raphinha expected to be out?
Barcelona's medical team estimates that Raphinha will be sidelined for approximately five weeks.
What did Laporta say about FIFA's calendar?
Laporta criticized FIFA for having a congested international calendar that does not consider the impact on clubs.
How is Barcelona performing in La Liga?
FC Barcelona currently leads La Liga with 73 points from 29 matches.
What are the implications of Raphinha's injury for Barcelona?
Raphinha's absence poses a significant challenge for Barcelona as they face crucial matches in both the UEFA Champions League and La Liga.
