Raphinha Pushes for Bigger Role as Barcelona Prepare for Girona Clash
With the international break now behind them, Hansi Flick has shifted Barcelona’s focus toward an important La Liga encounter against Girona, as several first-team players return from injury.
Among the most positive developments is the recovery of Raphinha, who has rejoined full training and been cleared to feature in the upcoming match. The Brazilian winger has shown encouraging physical progress, earning a spot in the squad list for the weekend. However, behind the scenes, the situation is more complex than it appears.
Flick, following medical advice, is expected to limit Raphinha’s playing time to 15–20 minutes in order to avoid re-injury and allow a gradual return to full fitness. But sources close to the player reveal that Raphinha is frustrated with this cautious approach.
The 27-year-old reportedly feels that time is running out, with El Clásico fast approaching, and fears losing his starting role if he cannot prove his form soon. He believes short cameos against Girona and Olympiacos will not be enough to convince Flick that he deserves to start against Real Madrid. As a result, Raphinha has asked the medical and technical staff to allow him at least 45 minutes on the pitch to show he is ready.
However, his return is creating unease within the dressing room. Raphinha’s inclusion could threaten Marcus Rashford’s position in the starting XI — a player who has been considered untouchable since joining the squad this season. Any hint that Rashford might be benched could unsettle him, as his performances depend heavily on confidence and rhythm.
From Flick’s perspective, Raphinha fits seamlessly into his high-intensity, pressing-oriented system. The Brazilian’s defensive work rate and ability to recover possession make him a natural fit for the manager’s tactical vision — something Rashford has struggled to execute consistently.
This leaves Flick with a delicate dilemma: should he reintegrate Raphinha aggressively and risk disrupting the team’s current balance, or proceed cautiously and potentially lose one of his most dynamic attacking options ahead of a critical run of fixtures?
Ultimately, Raphinha’s return is proving to be more than a simple fitness matter. It is evolving into a strategic and psychological test for Flick and his squad — one that could influence Barcelona’s momentum in the decisive weeks ahead.
