Barcelona’s Hansi Flick provides major update on Raphinha and Marcus Rashford’s injuries ahead of LaLiga clash against Girona

Even though they were clear favorites to beat Atlético Madrid, Barcelona suffered a surprising blow. Los Colchoneros exposed the shortcomings of their high press and managed to score four goals. However, the Blaugranas already have a new challenge ahead of them Girona in La Liga and are obliged to win. Before this game, coach Hansi Flick reveals key details about Raphinha and Marcus Rashford’s injury status.

According to Hansi Flick at his most recent press conference: Raphinha is fully fit for the match against Girona and even trained with the team on SaturdayFebruary 14. Despite the coach has not confirmed whether the Brazilian will start or come off the benchbecause his return to the field could be handled carefully. With this, Barcelona regains the best player to strengthen their grip at the top of LaLiga.

Unlike the Brazilian, Marcus Rashford remains out of Barcelona’s squad as he did not even take part in team training on Saturday. Still, the Englishman hopes he won’t be sidelined for long, but the Blaugranas won’t rush his return, Hansi Flick reported. Given the player’s extensive injury history, they choose to proceed carefullyavoiding any serious setback that could hinder his progress heading into the latter part of the season.

In addition to Raphinha’s return, Hansi Flick announced that Pedri could also be ready for the match against Girona, giving Barcelona the chance to restore their best version heading into the decisive final part of the season. Moreover, tThe coach revealed that Pablo Gavi impressed him during training after returning from a long-term injury; However, it won’t be available until Marchmeaning the team would have even more options to challenge for all the titles.

Barcelona players are reportedly demanding tactical changes from Hansi Flick

Unlike previous matches Barcelona looked significantly weakened throughout the match. The absence of Marcus Rashford and Raphinha proved particularly difficult as a coach Hansi Flick had to face Atletico Madrid without a natural left winger. After the heavy defeat in the first leg of the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, Some players have reportedly requested certain changes from the coach ahead of the latter part of the season.

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According to The Athletic, several Barcelona players spoke directly to Hansi Flick in the dressing room. Besides they called for more pragmatism in important matches and more tactical flexibility against certain opponentsas they believe a high press is not sustainable without players like Raphinha or Pedri. Rather than signaling a conflict, both sides are looking for feedback to ensure they can compete for every title this season.

Far from being changes intended only for top-level opponents, Barcelona could implement them in the next match against Girona. However, they won’t face many problems as their opponent doesn’t have as aggressive a counter-attacking style as Atletico Madrid’s, meaning the high press could again be a key factor. Still, coach Hansi Flick was able to adjust his approach prior to the match.