Hansi Flick has confirmed that Barcelona will be without Raphinha, their most in-form player, for at least the next two matches due to a thigh issue he flagged during Brazil’s recent tour in Australia. Despite concerns about the severity of his injury, Flick reassured reporters that Raphinha is currently pain-free and able to perform exercises, but emphasized the need for caution due to previous injuries in the same area.
As a result, Raphinha will miss crucial encounters against Getafe in La Liga and a challenging match against Galatasaray in Turkey. The absence of the leading scorer will test Barcelona’s remaining leaders, including the young talent Lamine Yamal.
In Raphinha’s place, Flick intends to utilize Gabriel Jesus, who has been adapting well to the team’s style. Jesus, despite limited appearances thus far, has impressed with his scoring prowess and is expected to carry the high-pressing responsibilities that Raphinha usually fulfills.
Upcoming matches include a crucial Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain and a highly anticipated El Clásico against Real Madrid, making Raphinha’s potential return for the following weekend’s match against Real Betis all the more significant.
