Barcelona’s forward Raphinha has been cleared to return to training after a hamstring strain suffered while representing Brazil, and the club’s manager Hansi Flick confirmed the player will be available for Saturday’s away trip to Real Betis. The 29‑year‑old missed the matches against Getafe and Galatasaray, but his return comes at a critical juncture for the Catalans, who face a demanding week that includes a Champions League clash with Paris Saint‑Germain on Tuesday and a La Liga Clasico against Real Madrid the following weekend.
In a press conference on Friday, Flick emphasised a cautious approach to Raphinha’s involvement. “When you ask him, he will be ready from the beginning,” he said, adding that the striker had trained on Thursday and was performing well. Flick highlighted the need to manage the player’s minutes because of the congested schedule, but reassured fans that Raphinha’s fitness status was positive. The forward had netted 14 goals in eight appearances for Barça, operating primarily as a striker before the injury cut his season short.
The squad is also expected to see the return of Frenkie de Jong, who has been sidelined by a knee problem. De Jong’s comeback would bring the team closer to a fully fit lineup, with only Roony Bardghji and Andreas Christensen still out. Flick expressed enthusiasm about the Dutchman’s return, noting that his presence would add another option for the manager as he evaluates the team’s evolution post‑injury.
Flick also addressed the management of Lamine Yamal’s playing time. The 18‑year‑old has started every game for both club and country this season, contributing eight goals and nine assists in ten matches for Barça. Despite his impressive output, Flick acknowledged the importance of balancing Yamal’s workload with the team’s overall objectives. “It’s Lamine, he’s a special player,” Flick said, stressing that the priority is for the teenager to enjoy the game while still recognising the need for careful rotation.
Barcelona’s perfect start to the campaign—ten wins from ten games—will be tested by a trio of formidable opponents. Betis, who have won all four of their home fixtures in La Liga and two of two in the Champions League, present a significant challenge. Following that, the club will travel to Paris to face the reigning European champions, before hosting Real Madrid in the season’s first Clasico. Flick maintained a focused stance, stating that while the upcoming fixtures are “huge,” the team will concentrate on the immediate task of securing victory against Betis.