Brazil received some particularly welcome news ahead of its World Cup Round of 16 match against Norway on Sunday (July 5 – 11:00 p.m.), as Rafinha returned to training on a regular grass field.

The Barcelona winger made significant progress in his recovery on Tuesday (June 30), increasing the chances that he will be available to Carlo Ancelotti. His return is a major “boost” of optimism for the “Seleção,” which has recently faced several injury issues within its roster.

The 29-year-old is working closely with the Brazilian national team’s medical staff to overcome the muscle issue that has been plaguing him. Although the rest of the national team players had the day off until Wednesday afternoon (July 1), Rafinha remained at the training center, continuing his intensive rehabilitation program.

His decision to work tirelessly toward his return demonstrates his desire to be in the best possible condition ahead of the crucial matches in the World Cup knockout stage.

Despite the encouraging signs from Rafinha’s return to training with the ball, Brazil’s coaching staff intends to proceed with extreme caution. The inclusion of Lucas Paquetá on the injury report, following the thigh injury he sustained in the match against Japan, has reinforced the “Seleção” staff’s desire not to risk a possible relapse for the winger.

According to reports from “ESPN,” the 29-year-old’s recovery is progressing well, though his participation in the Round of 16 match against Norway remains in doubt. The medical staff is monitoring his condition daily, and Carlo Ancelotti is expected to make the final decision at the last minute, either by including him in the squad or by resting him in anticipation of a potential quarterfinal, should Brazil advance.

Rafinha’s latest injury is even more disappointing, as it marks the fifth time he has suffered an injury to the same muscle group during the 2025–26 season. The Brazilian winger has missed several matches for both Barcelona and the national team due to a series of muscle issues and injuries.

The injury occurred in the first half of Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti in Philadelphia. Rafinha left the field visibly disappointed, fearing that the World Cup was over for him prematurely.

However, medical tests revealed a muscle strain rather than a tear, keeping his hopes of returning to the tournament alive. Provided his body responds well to the increased intensity of training sessions this week, it is not out of the question that he could be available to Carlo Ancelotti again for the “Seleção’s” upcoming matches.

*photo source: AP