Raphinha’s absence could open a door for Hamza Abdelkarim

Hansi Flick confirmed that Raphinha will miss Barcelona’s next two matches. The winger sustained a right-leg injury during the most recent international break while with Brazil, and his absence could create more room for Hamza Abdelkarim in the first team. The young forward is hoping for more playing time after his promotion within the club, but that opportunity remains uncertain.

Raphinha will not play against Getafe on Saturday in the Spanish league or against Galatasaray next Tuesday in the Champions League. He had already missed Barcelona’s group training sessions ahead of the Getafe match: he came onto the pitch before his teammates and did individual work instead.

The coach described the injury as not serious, while stressing that it needed careful attention given the player’s history of injuries. “The situation is clear, but it is not a serious injury. However, we have to take it seriously, especially as he has had many injuries, and we have to take care of him. He will not be available tomorrow or against Galatasaray,” he said.

Flick also addressed Raphinha’s involvement with his national team despite his physical problems. He said players naturally want to represent their countries and that clubs cannot control international match schedules. “It’s the national team; everyone wants to play for their country. That is Raphinha’s mentality, and we cannot change the match schedules.”

With Raphinha, described as one of Barcelona’s leading scorers since the start of the season, unavailable, Flick must consider his attacking options. He said Gabriel Jesus could start against Getafe. “That is the idea. He has improved a lot and fits our style of play. He is performing very well, I like him, and he is ready to play,” he said of Jesus.

Hamza Abdelkarim could therefore benefit from Raphinha’s absence, but it does not mean he will automatically get his chance. Gabriel Jesus is among the other attacking options Flick said he trusted.