Raphinha ruled out for UCL quarter-finals: Can Rashford step up for Barcelona vs Atletico in UCL?

Barcelona have suffered a major blow ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Atletico Madrid. Star winger Raphinha is ruled out for five weeks with a right hamstring injury. He picked up the problem during Brazil’s 2-1 friendly defeat against France and was substituted at half-time. Tests confirmed the damage, and he will miss both legs of the tie first leg at Spotify Camp Nou on April 8 and the return at the Metropolitano on April 14 plus several La Liga games.

This creates a key gap on the right flank. Marcus Rashfordthe 28-year-old on loan from Manchester United, is set to step up. In the UCL this season, Rashford has scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists in 9 appearances. Overall for Barcelona, he has contributed 10 goals and 13 assists in 39 matches across all competitions.

Rashford offers versatility in Hansi Flick’s system. He can play on either wing or centrally, using his pace and direct running to stretch defences. His Premier League big-game experience is a plus, and the Champions League stage often brings out his best. However, his recent La Liga minutes have been inconsistent, raising slight concerns over sharpness. Flick has backed him publicly.

Atletico’s organised defence under Diego Simeone will pose a tough test. If Rashford links well with Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s attack can stay dangerous and push for the semi-finals. Without Raphinha, Rashford now has a big chance to shine and make the tie even more intriguing.