FC Barcelona showcased their quality against Borussia Dortmund in a difficult away trip to Germany. It is never an easy stadium to visit and the Bundesliga side is often unbeatable at home but Hansi Flick’s men found a way.
A goal from captain Raphinha and a brace from impact substitute Ferran Torres were sufficient to give Barcelona a late 3-2 win over the Yellow-Black army and the latter in particular really impressed with his composure in front of goal.
However, there was one worrying moment in the game against Dortmund when Raphinha was taken off at around the hour mark with what seemed like an issue. The last thing Barcelona could afford right now was an injury to the Brazilian.
Thus, it has been welcome news since as reported by Mundo Deportivo, that Raphinha was not actually injured but was just tired and suffering from a bout of cramps. Considering the intensity with which he plays games, it is hardly a surprise.
Raphinha is also one of those players who has clocked numerous minutes under Hansi Flick this season and was due a rest. In fact, considering what happened against Dortmund, the German coach could choose to completely rest him against Leganes in the weekend.
The issue for Barcelona is that Raphinha has been so influential whenever he has played this season, thus, resting him is a very difficult decision for Hansi Flick. However, this weekend provides the coach with the ideal opportunity.
It remains to be seen if the Brazilian winger takes some time to recover or if he is fit, available, and raring to go for the clash in La Liga. Ultimately, sense needs to prevail with Raphinha because, at his current form, we need him more than ever, and let’s wait and see how Flick goes about this situation.
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DORTMUND, GERMANY - DECEMBER 11: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona controls the ball under pressure from Ramy Bensebaini of Borussia Dortmund during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Borussia Dortmund and FC Barcelona at BVB Stadion Dortmund on December 11, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 26: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's first goal from a penalty during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between FC Barcelona and Stade Brestois 29 at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on November 26, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 26: Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between FC Barcelona and Stade Brestois 29 at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on November 26, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.