Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that Raphinha is fully fit and will travel with the squad for Saturday’s La Liga fixture against Osasuna, effectively signalling the Brazilian’s availability for the upcoming El Clásico against Real Madrid.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Flick addressed Raphinha’s fitness directly, offering a candid assessment of what the captain’s return means for the squad. “Injuries happen. Rapha always gives 100%. It’s his mentality, his attitude. He helps us a lot, but he’s struggled this season. It’s important to have him back. He’ll travel and we’ll see what happens. He’s the captain. Maybe he’ll give us what we need,” Flick said, per Football Espana.
The 29-year-old Brazilian international has been absent since sustaining a right hamstring tear during a high-intensity sprint on international duty in March. His injury had a significant impact on Barcelona’s attacking output and coincided with the club’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League.
Flick also confirmed that 19-year-old midfielder Marc Bernal will rejoin the matchday squad against Osasuna following his own recovery period. However, the German coach remained cautious regarding fellow absentee Andreas Christensen, stating: “I don’t know about Andreas [if he’ll be able to play this season], we have to take it one step at a time. ‘Berni’ will be with us tomorrow.”
Raphinha’s return arrives at a particularly sensitive moment for Barcelona’s squad depth. Lamine Yamal remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, leaving the Catalan side short of options in wide attacking positions ahead of what could be a season-defining week. The El Clásico fixture against Real Madrid carries title implications, with Barcelona looking to secure their second consecutive La Liga championship.
With the domestic season entering its final stretch, Raphinha’s reintegration into the starting lineup is widely considered significant for Barcelona’s chances of closing out the title. The Brazilian forward has been one of the club’s most influential players in recent seasons, and his absence following the March injury disrupted Flick’s tactical setup during a pivotal period in both domestic and European competition.
Marc Bernal’s inclusion in the squad also provides a timely boost. The teenage midfielder had been working his way back to full fitness and his return adds competitive depth to Barcelona’s midfield options as the club navigates a congested fixture schedule.
