Barcelona Boosted as Raphinha and De Jong Rejoin Squad Training
Barcelona have been handed a timely double fitness boost before their trip to Real Betis, with Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong both completing Thursday morning’s session with the squad. Neither player has yet been formally cleared for selection, but their progress gives Hansi Flick the prospect of recovering two experienced options after the 4-1 Champions League win at Galatasaray.
Key takeaways
- Raphinha returned to full team training after several days on an individual grass programme.
- The 29-year-old did not travel for Barcelona’s 4-1 victory over Galatasaray in Turkey.
- De Jong has also trained with the group as he approaches his first appearance of the season following a knee injury.
- Barcelona’s medical and coaching staff will assess both players again before deciding whether they can face Betis at the Benito Villamarin.
- De Jong is more likely to be managed through a substitute appearance than an immediate start if he is passed fit.
Raphinha steps up recovery work
Raphinha used the Champions League trip to Istanbul to continue building his fitness in Barcelona, increasing his workload while his team-mates were away. That work has now taken him into full training, where he joined the recovery session held after the squad’s return from Turkey.
The Brazilian forward’s possible return would be significant for Flick, particularly after recent matches in which Barcelona have been without his pressing and high-energy work off the ball. The staff are now focused on how he responds after the increased intensity of full-contact and group drills.
A decision on his involvement against Betis will depend on the next sessions and any physical reaction that follows. Barcelona are expected to wait until the final pre-match training period before issuing a definitive update on whether he will travel to Seville.
De Jong nearing season debut
De Jong has made steady progress since returning to group work after a lengthy lay-off caused by a knee problem. His latest successful session moves him closer to a first competitive outing of the campaign.
Flick has previously suggested that the Netherlands midfielder could be available this week, although Barcelona are unlikely to expose him to an immediate full-match workload. A controlled appearance from the bench is the more probable route should the medical department give approval.
The midfielder would add composure and progression in possession to a Barcelona side seeking to preserve its place at the top of the table. With fixtures beginning to accumulate, Flick must weigh the value of having Raphinha and De Jong involved at the Benito Villamarin against the need to avoid a setback.
Betis present a demanding away test in Seville, with Barcelona facing a technically capable opponent in a strong home environment. Raphinha could offer width and penetration in attack, while De Jong would provide another option to manage the rhythm of the game. For now, however, both remain subject to final medical clearance, with Flick maintaining that only players at full physical capacity will be used.
