FC Barcelona receives a significant lift as a star attacker returns to training, boosting their preparations for the crucial El Clasico.
FC Barcelona’s resounding 6-1 victory over Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League has ignited momentum as they prepare for El Clasico against Real Madrid on October 26 at Santiago Bernabéu.
With Hansi Flick sidelined by a red card and injuries depleting the squad, the Blaugrana, second in La Liga with 19 points, face table-toppers Madrid in a defining clash.
A significant development from the training ground offers a timely lift, bolstering Barcelona’s prospects in this high-stakes rivalry.
Per Javi Miguel of AS, winger Raphinha has resumed group training after a month out with a right hamstring injury.
The Brazilian completed part of Wednesday’s session, aiming for a full session by Thursday to gain medical clearance for El Clasico.
Though unlikely to start, his potential bench role enhances morale, alongside Ferran Torres’s return from a muscle strain for the Olympiacos squad.
Hansi Flick has lauded Raphinha’s work rate and leadership, crucial for a team without Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo.
Raphinha’s comeback, with six goals and four assists this season, adds flair to an attack driven by Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford.
His intensity could exploit Madrid’s weakened defense, missing David Alaba, and with Dean Huijsen doubtful.
Torres, unused against Olympiacos, is expected to be ready, giving assistant Marcus Sorg options as Flick watches from the stands.
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The Olympiacos rout, led by Fermin Lopez’s hat-trick, showcased Barcelona’s attacking edge, but defensive lapses must be tightened against Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior.
Raphinha’s return with La Masia talents like Pau Cubarsí stepping up.
As Barcelona aim to seize La Liga’s top spot, this training boost could be decisive, positioning them to capitalize on Madrid’s vulnerabilities in a Clasico that could shape the title race.
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