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Barça: Raphinha makes his big comeback

Raphinha has returned to Barça’s full-team training and could be back as early as Saturday against Real Betis
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Barça: Raphinha makes his big comeback
Barça: Raphinha makes his big comeback

Absent since the international break, Raphinha has returned to training with the Barcelona squad and is finally closing in on a return to competitive action.

Good news for FC Barcelona. After several days of individual work, Raphinha returned to full-team training on Thursday morning, according to Sport. The Barça captain could therefore make his return as early as Saturday against Real Betis, on the occasion of the next La Liga matchday.

The final decision will nevertheless rest with Hansi Flick, who is unlikely to take any risks with his winger just days before a much more important European fixture: the trip to face Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, October 20, in the Champions League.

Two matches missed, two wins for Barça

After suffering a right-thigh injury during the friendly between Brazil and Australia at the end of September, Raphinha has not played since. His absence meant he missed two matches with Barça.

The first came on October 10 against Getafe. Despite the absence of their captain, the Catalan club won 3-0 at Camp Nou thanks to goals from Anthony Gordon, Gabriel Jesus and Jules Koundé.

Three days later, Raphinha was again unavailable for the trip to face Galatasaray in the Champions League. This time, the Blaugrana secured an even more convincing victory in Turkey, 4-1, with Lamine Yamal putting in a particularly strong performance.

Barça therefore negotiated the two matches played without Raphinha perfectly, scoring seven goals and conceding just one. His return is nevertheless eagerly awaited, given how important his attacking influence has been since the start of the season.

Frenkie de Jong also returns to training with the squad

Another piece of good news for Hansi Flick: Frenkie de Jong also took part in Thursday’s full-team session. The Dutchman is likewise in contention for a place in the squad for the trip to face Betis.

With a busy run of fixtures between the league and the Champions League approaching, Barça could therefore recover two key players at the perfect time.

Read also: Barça unveil their new special kit for El Clásico

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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