Barcelona forward Raphinha says he has to take some blame for his recent injury relapses after returning to action for Hansi Flick’s side.
A recent report from The Athletic has provided a damning review of Barca’s medical services, but Raphinha says he has been at fault during the recovery process.
“There may have been mistakes, but the truth is I’ve had two relapses of my injury. The first was partly my fault, and I think the second was too. I can take responsibility for that, because ultimately I do things, and if I think they won’t help me, I should be the first to say no,” he told reporters.
“I take responsibility for the two relapses because I wanted to be back on the field as soon as possible to help the team. I made some mistakes, and that’s why I had those two relapses.”
Raphinha also spoke about how difficult he has found the rehabilitation process this season.
“I’m trying to get back to 100%. Muscle injuries are tricky after recovery, and I’ve had two relapses,” he added.
“I’m trying to find my best fitness level and recover completely so I can get back to giving my all on the field. And everyone is doing their best to speed up the recovery process: the doctors, the physios, everyone.”
Raphinha was a second-half substitute last time out against Athletic and is set for more minutes against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
