Barcelonas Injury Crisis: Raphinhas Return and Flicks Attack Dilemma

Barcelona’s 2024-25 season is being defined by a relentless injury crisis. Winger Raphinha’s recurring hamstring problem has become a focal point of growing concern. His latest setback occurred just before the crucial El Clasico fixture.

This situation has ignited tensions within the club’s medical and fitness departments. According to The Athletic, players have voiced dissatisfaction with new recovery protocols implemented under coach Hansi Flick.

A Club in Turmoil Over Player Fitness

The scale of the problem is significant. At least twelve first-team players have suffered injuries this season. This number is substantially higher than the same period last year.

Raphinha’s case is particularly troubling. He first injured his hamstring in late September. His attempted return was rushed, leading to a major relapse before the Real Madrid match.

Internal disagreements over his treatment plan have since surfaced. Fitness staff led by Julio Tous advocated for an intensive readaptation program. The club’s medical team expressed caution, creating a clear division.

Player Unrest and a Shift in Protocol

The discontent was not isolated to Raphinha. Young star Lamine Yamal also struggled with a persistent groin issue. He reportedly requested alternative treatment outside the new fitness team’s methods.

Similar concerns were raised by defender Alejandro Balde. He experienced a setback during gym work deemed too aggressive. This pattern of incidents forced a club review.

Barcelona’s leadership has now taken decisive action. The fitness team has been pulled back from managing player readaptation. These duties have returned to the previous medical staff structure.

Flick’s New Selection Headache

As players slowly return to fitness, a new challenge emerges. Manager Hansi Flick now faces a selection dilemma in attack. He has almost too many options available.

Lamine Yamal’s form makes him essential on the right wing. Ferran Torres has staked a strong claim for a central role after scoring twice against Athletic Club. Robert Lewandowski remains a key figure.

The left wing is now a battleground. Marcus Rashford is fully fit and in sharp form. Raphinha, though not at his peak, is a favorite of the coach. This creates a difficult balancing act for crucial upcoming matches.

Thought you’d like to know

How long was Raphinha out with his hamstring injury?

Raphinha missed approximately one month of action. His initial injury occurred on September 25th. A major relapse just before El Clasico extended his recovery period significantly.

Which other players complained about the fitness methods?

Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde both raised concerns. Yamal specifically requested different treatment for his groin injury. Balde experienced a setback during gym work under the new regime.

How many Barcelona players have been injured this season?

The club has registered injuries for twelve first-team players in the 2024-25 campaign. This compares to just eight players at the same stage during the previous season, highlighting a clear regression.

What change did the club make to the recovery process?

Barcelona removed the new fitness staff from overseeing player readaptation. The club returned these responsibilities to the previous medical team structure that players were more comfortable with.

Why is team selection becoming difficult for Hansi Flick?

Most attacking players are now returning from injury simultaneously. With only three forward spots available, Flick must choose between in-form stars like Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, and a recovering Raphinha.