It must be noted that the 2025/26 season has been challenging for Flick in terms of injuries. As such, Dani Olmo was confirmed injured during the recent international break, followed by Robert Lewandowski with a torn hamstring, ruling both out for the El Clasico. Adding to these absences, goalkeeper Joan Garcia and midfielder Gavi are also unavailable. These key injuries have complicated preparations for Barcelona ahead of one of the biggest fixtures in Spanish football.
Barcelona forward Raphinha is still not training with the group, raising doubts over his availability for the upcoming matches against Girona and Olympiakos, according to Adria Albets. While the winger is expected to recover in time for El Clasico, he remains focused on individual work in the gym and has not yet joined his teammates on the training pitch. With just four days to go before the clash with Girona, Raphinha continues to work alone, even refraining from exercising on the sidelines.
Manchester United are interested in signing Raphinha from Barcelona in 2026, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Man United are ready to pay between €120 million and €150 million for the former Leeds United winger. Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022. The Brazil international winger has gone from strength to strength during his time at the defending Spanish champions.
All four players will be out of action until at least after the international break, meaning they will miss Sunday's game against Real Sociedad, the Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain next Wednesday and the trip to Sevilla on Oct. 5. On a more positive note, both Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde trained on Friday and could return from their respective injuries against Real Sociedad this weekend.
I was close to accepting the call-up to the Italy national team. I would have gone to the European Championships that they won in 2020.