Flick questions Raphinha's fitness regime after latest injury setback
Barça boss hints at potential changes needed for injury-prone Brazilian, while praising Balde's national team credentials and managing squad rotation concerns.
Barcelona manager showing signs of frustration as injury problems continue to mount ahead of Copa del Rey clash with Albacete.
Raphinha concerns growing
Hansi Flick has expressed clear frustration with Raphinha’s ongoing injury problems, suggesting changes may be needed in the Brazilian’s approach. The German manager didn’t mince his words when discussing the winger’s latest setback.
“Habrá que ver qué hay que cambiar, qué tiene que cambiar él,” Flick stated bluntly, indicating either the club’s handling or the player’s own habits might need adjustment.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Barcelona, with Flick emphasizing they need all players available during this crucial stretch of the season. It’s a proper kick in the teeth for the squad depth just as fixtures pile up.
Ter Stegen worries
The injury concerns don’t stop with Raphinha. Barcelona’s number one Marc-André ter Stegen has also picked up a knock, though Flick was reluctant to elaborate until receiving more comprehensive medical information. The gaffer admitted he hadn’t yet spoken with the German keeper or sporting director Deco about the situation.
Balde for Spain?
On a more positive note, Flick was full of praise for left-back Alejandro Balde, suggesting his performances warrant national team consideration:
- Highlighted Balde’s excellent showing against Elche
- Described his work as “fantastic”
- Explicitly stated he could be a player for the Spanish national team
Cup mentality crucial
Looking ahead to the Copa del Rey clash with Albacete, Flick revealed his staff have been studying Albacete’s recent performances against Celta Vigo and Real Madrid for tactical insights.
He emphasized that while Barcelona’s quality is evident, the mentality will be decisive against lower-league opposition. The boss was keen to point out the unpredictability of cup competitions, noting that underdogs have “nothing to lose, only to gain.”
Squad management
Flick also addressed several player-specific situations:
- Praised the atmosphere among the squad despite competition for places
- Acknowledged the difficulty of breaking into the starting XI
- Emphasized the importance of substitutes, noting “five more finish the game”
- Expressed satisfaction with Rashford while suggesting he has “much more potential”
- Indicated Gavi’s return will be managed carefully, “step by step”
The German tactician seems pleased with Barcelona’s progress since their Chelsea defeat, highlighting improved performances while acknowledging they’re still not the finished article. As my old man would say, it’s not the dog and bone yet, but they’re certainly heading in the right direction.