Recently, Barcelona has been dealt a significant blow with the news that Raphinha will be sidelined for a large portion of the remaining season due to a hamstring injury sustained while on international duty. The team will have to cope without their star winger for the next 4-5 weeks, which poses a significant challenge for manager Hansi Flick.
Barcelona’s leadership has expressed discontent regarding this issue, a sentiment echoed by president-elect Joan Laporta. This week, he addressed Món Esport (via MD), expressing hope that Raphinha’s injury would prompt FIFA to take action regarding international scheduling.
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“We should advocate for FIFA to establish an international calendar that considers the commitments of major clubs. It’s frustrating to see one of our top players injured during a friendly match between France and Brazil in the U.S.,” he stated.
“Furthermore, we cannot shift the responsibility of injury onto the player. They are professionals representing their country and giving their all.”
Laporta: Talks with Flick will occur in the summer
Laporta also confirmed that discussions regarding Flick’s contract renewal will take place at season’s end, ensuring that he and the first team remain focused on ending the season positively.
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“We will calmly address the situation at the end of the season. Flick doesn’t feel any urgency about it. He is a very honest and professional person. I believe he deserves a renewal, but he prefers to wait until the season concludes to assess the circumstances and make decisions. If he were to extend his contract for another year, he already has that in mind. He feels that if he has a long-term contract, some might perceive that as a reason to ease off.”