Raphinha returning to Barca after suffering minor muscle issue with Brazil

FC Barcelona forward Raphinha has been allowed to leave the Brazil national team squad and miss its forthcoming friendly against India to return to Spain after suffering a slight muscle injury, reported Xinhua.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the decision in a statement after Raphinha was forced off at halftime of Brazil's 4-2 friendly win over Australia in Brisbane.

"Raphinha underwent an imaging test this Wednesday, which revealed minor muscle edema in the back of his right thigh. As a precaution and to facilitate a speedy recovery, the player will be withdrawn from the Brazilian national team," the federation said in its statement.

Barcelona will carry out its own tests when the player returns to Spain. The Brazilian has made an excellent start to the season after switching to a more central attacking role, scoring 12 goals and providing three assists in seven La Liga matches, while also netting twice in Barcelona's Champions League win at home to Feyenoord.

The fact that he suffered several hamstring problems last season will be a concern for Barcelona ahead of a packed fixture schedule in the coming month, which includes a Champions League visit to Paris Saint-Germain and the first La Liga Clasico of the campaign at home to Real Madrid on Oct. 25.