Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has provided insights on the team’s current dynamics after Brazilian forward Rafinha suffered a significant injury. The 29-year-old will be sidelined for five weeks following a right hamstring injury incurred during Brazil’s recent match against France. As a result, he is set to miss critical fixtures against Atlético Madrid, including the Champions League quarter-finals.
Flick addressed reporters before the La Liga match against Atlético, emphasizing the unfortunate timing of Rafinha’s injury. “This injury does not come at the best time for us or for him,” he stated. The manager noted that Rafinha had been visibly affected by his setback, prompting the decision to grant him some time off to recuperate emotionally.
This incident marks the third instance this season where Rafinha has encountered the same hamstring issue, leading to a substantial absence of 16 games across both club and international competitions. After the Brazil-France encounter in Boston, Flick and sporting director Deco agreed that Rafinha would benefit from returning to Brazil briefly to spend time with family and regain his focus.
“I spoke to him on FaceTime, and he was very disappointed and depressed, so we decided that he could spend time in Brazil,” Flick explained. The manager hopes this time away will help Rafinha clear his mind, allowing for a potential return by the weekend.
In the meantime, Marcus Rashford has the opportunity to fill the void left by Rafinha. The Manchester United forward, who has had limited appearances due to injuries, is looking to capitalize on the current situation. Flick expressed optimism about Rashford’s performance, noting his impressive statistics this season with 10 goals and 13 assists in 39 appearances.
Flick also spoke about the potential for other players to step in, including Fermín López and Gabi, who are both capable of taking on Rafinha’s responsibilities. He welcomed Gabi’s return to full form, indicating that there are multiple options available to the team.
On the injury front, Flick confirmed that defenders Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde, and Eric Garcia have recovered and will be available for selection against Atlético. However, Frenkie de Jong is still in rehabilitation and won’t resume training until next week.
As the season approaches its climax, Barcelona stands at the top of La Liga, holding a four-point lead over Real Madrid. Their upcoming clash with Atlético is just the first of three encounters in an 11-day stretch, including two Champions League fixtures. The victor will advance to the semi-finals, facing either Arsenal or Sporting Club.
