A significant problem that Barcelona will encounter in the next Clasico is the absence of winger Raphinha, who suffered a hamstring injury in his recovery process. The Brazilian international, due to resume, complained during training and the club delayed his reintegration. Raphinha has not featured since September 25, when he helped Barcelona to win a 2-0 game against Real Oviedo.
The harm crisis stretches throughout the team. Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Joan Garcia, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen will not be present in the trip to the Bernabeu and Jules Kounde and Andreas Christensen are questionable. Hansi Flick, the manager, who is also banned after receiving a red card, will be substituted by the assistant, Marcus Sorg, during the press conferences and match-day duties.
The opening Clasico game of the La Liga season has put Real Madrid two points above the table, making Barcelona’s challenge more urgent. A defeat would be disastrous to their championship aspirations, while victory would bridge the divide and motivate the team. The loss of critical players like Raphinha underscores the team’s weaknesses, and they have to make strategic changes and depend on the less experienced members of the team.
After the derail in Madrid, Barcelona must play Elche, Club Brugues and Celta Vigo, and then the league will take a break as the teams start playing each other in international matches. The club is also alert to Raphinha, where hamstring injuries can be recurrent in case they are rushed. They will be keen to keep track of the developments with the hope that the Brazilian winger will be healthy enough to lead Barcelona in the league.
