Barcelona's thrilling early-season form has been met with an unwelcome complication after star forward Raphinha was forced to withdraw from international duty due to a thigh problem in his right leg. The Brazilian was taken off at half-time during his country's clash with Australia, prompting immediate concern at Camp Nou.
Manager Hansi Flick addressed the issue directly, confirming that initial tests had revealed some damage, though he stressed the situation was not alarming. "The tests show something," Flick told reporters. "It's not a serious injury, but we have to be careful because he had three injuries last year, and we have to take care of him."
Despite the frustration of losing one of his most important players, even temporarily, Flick was quick to praise Raphinha's commitment to representing his country. "It's the national team and everyone wants to play for their national team," the coach explained. "That's Raphinha's mentality. Always give 100%."
However, the German tactician did not hide his unease about the broader circumstances surrounding the call-up, particularly given the travel demands involved. "We must reflect on whether it was necessary for him to play in Australia, travelling so many thousands of kilometres," Flick said. "It's incredible. They have to choose friendly matches and in Europe it is not possible because of the Nations League." His comments reflect a growing tension between club and country over player welfare during international breaks, especially for a squad with as many high-profile commitments as Barcelona's.
The timing of the setback is far from convenient. Raphinha has been one of the standout performers of Barcelona's campaign so far, reinventing himself in a false nine role following Robert Lewandowski's summer departure. What initially looked like a potential weakness in the squad - the lack of a recognised central striker - has instead become one of Flick's masterstrokes, with the Brazilian thriving in the position and spearheading an attack that has looked nearly unstoppable.
Barcelona currently sit atop the La Liga table, holding a five-point cushion over both Atletico Madrid and Real Betis, while reigning rivals Real Madrid trail further behind in fourth. The club's attacking output has been eye-catching, having scored 36 goals while conceding just eight across all competitions. Their Champions League campaign also got off to an emphatic start with a 5-1 demolition of Feyenoord.
With Raphinha sidelined for the short term, Flick is expected to turn to Gabriel Jesus, the Brazilian forward signed from Arsenal on transfer deadline day in September, to fill the void. Jesus is likely to lead the line in the upcoming fixtures against Getafe this weekend and then in the Champions League trip to face Galatasaray.
Flick does, however, have options beyond Jesus. The Barcelona squad boasts considerable attacking depth, with Anthony Gordon, Dani Olmo, and Karim Adeyemi all capable of operating as a false nine should the need arise. While the loss of Raphinha, even briefly, is a blow, Barcelona's strength in numbers means the team should be well equipped to maintain its momentum until their talisman returns to full fitness.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.