Barcelona star Raphinha has confirmed he is not yet at full fitness ahead of Sunday’s critical El Clasico against Real Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou. The Brazilian forward sustained discomfort in his right thigh while representing Brazil during the international break, a precautionary issue that forced him to withdraw from the national squad. Despite returning to training, Raphinha acknowledged that his recovery is ongoing, stating, “No. Not yet. I’m still working towards reaching 100 per cent fitness, but I feel in good shape – very good, in fact.”
Key Match Highlights & Tactical Analysis
Manager Hansi Flick faces a significant tactical decision with the winger’s availability uncertain for one of the season’s most high-stakes fixtures. Raphinha’s physical condition is a pivotal factor in Barcelona’s attacking strategy, as his explosive pace and directness are key components of the team’s current form. While the player remains optimistic about his immediate readiness, the medical staff and coaching team are closely monitoring his thigh to ensure he can withstand the physical intensity of a match against Real Madrid without risking a recurrence of the injury.
The upcoming clash is not just about the result but also a test of resilience for both squads. With Vinicius Junior and other Real Madrid threats poised to exploit any defensive gaps, Barcelona’s ability to maintain high pressing intensity depends heavily on key players like Raphinha being at peak performance. As the team prepares for the weekend, the focus remains on managing workload and ensuring that the squad’s depth is utilized effectively to secure a victory in this marquee encounter.
Source: Yahoo Sports
