FC Barcelona faces a major blow as a key star’s participation in the El Clasico clash against Real Madrid hangs in the balance.
With Hansi Flick suspended and assistant Marcus Sorg leading the side, the Blaugrana are grappling with an injury crisis that has sidelined Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, and Marc-André ter Stegen.
As they aim to exploit Madrid’s depleted defense, missing David Alaba, a fresh setback in Friday’s training session has cast a shadow over their preparations, threatening to disrupt Flick’s attacking plans for this pivotal title-race clash.
According to Diario Sport, Raphinha, Barcelona’s Brazilian winger, missed Friday’s training session, just 48 hours before El Clasico, due to a setback in his recovery from a right hamstring injury sustained in late September.
Initially expected to return for the match after partial group training earlier in the week, his absence from the penultimate session raises serious doubts about his availability.
Though unlikely to start after a month out, Raphinha’s pace and leadership were seen as key bench options against Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé.
In contrast, positive news emerged for another key player, with Frenkie de Jong training fully after overcoming gastroenteritis that had sidelined him on Thursday.
The Dutch midfielder’s rapid recovery ensures his likely starring role, bringing vision and control to a midfield featuring Marc Casado and Eric Garcia.
Andreas Christensen also returns, bolstering a defense led by Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsí.
However, Raphinha’s potential absence tests Barcelona’s depth, with Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal likely to lead the attack.
With time running out, Raphinha’s status, per the report, hinges on Saturday’s session.
If he misses out, Sorg must rely on youth and returning players to secure a statement win, keeping Barcelona’s title hopes alive in a fiercely contested Clasico.
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