More good news for Chelsea as Hansi Flick delivers Barcelona team news ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash.
Barcelona have heaps of talent at their disposal, but their ranks have been weakened by injuries, not dissimilar to how the Blues’ season has gone.
Pedri is ruled out with injury, making the Spanish champions a less daunting proposition.
But Chelsea fans might be even more pleased to hear Flick’s concerns over a returning superstar, who might not be able to make his usual impact.
Raphinha playing for Barcelona
Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/JAR Sport Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Hansi Flick says Raphinha’s minutes need to be managed
Last season’s top scorer and assister in the Champions League, to say Raphinha enjoys a European night is an understatement. The Brazilian was absolutely automatic last season, matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s G/A record in a single campaign, with 21.
Raphinha has been out injured for a large part of the season, only returning against Athletic Club at the weekend. It was a short cameo, coming on in the 81st minute with the result already sealed.
Flick was asked about the winger’s condition ahead of Chelsea.
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As AS Diario report, he responded: “We have to take it one step at a time. The important thing is that he’s back.
“We’ll have to manage his playing time, but I’m very happy he’s back. His performance on Saturday was noticeable in the minutes he played.”
After almost two months out, it’s unlikely Raphinha starts against Chelsea — if he does, he certainly won’t play 90.
There’s still Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal to contend with, but it’s still a welcome boost for Enzo Maresca.
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“We have a good opportunity. We need to know it’s two big games, but it’s nothing more than three points.
“It’s difficult to play against them [type of players] because they have special talent and a lot of quality. It’s not Lamine [Yamal] vs Cucurella. It’s a big game. We need to have a big game.”
Marc Cucurella
Flick is looking forward to facing Chelsea
The best managers relish the chance to compete against top opposition.
By the sounds of it, Flick sees this tie as exactly that.
As he puts it: “They’re one of the best clubs in the world. They have a great coach who gives them a distinct identity. I really appreciate what they’re doing.
“It’s a great match to compete in. It won’t be easy.”
This game has all the makings of a classic. Barcelona and Chelsea have an iconic feud and regardless of who starts for each side, it’s sure to be another nail-biter.