Barcelona captain Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan García are returning from injuries just in time for the team’s homecoming at Camp Nou, which has been closed for renovations for over two years.
Coach Hansi Flick confirmed that García will be in the starting lineup for the match against Athletic Club on Saturday, while Raphinha will start the game on the bench after nearly two months out with a leg injury.
“It’s great news that Raphinha is back,” Flick said on Friday. “I’m really pleased with what he brings to the team. We’ll assess tomorrow how many minutes he can play—be it 10, 15, or 20. Nonetheless, having him back and on the bench is a significant step forward.”
Saturday will see Barcelona’s first match back at Camp Nou since May 2023, following extensive renovations of the stadium. In the meantime, the team has been playing its home games at the city’s 55,000-capacity Olympic Stadium.
For the reopening, Camp Nou will only be partially available with 45,401 seats, about half its full capacity prior to renovations. Once the updates are complete, the new Camp Nou is expected to accommodate 105,000 fans.
“We definitely prefer playing in Camp Nou,” Flick remarked. “Walking up the stairs and reaching the pitch was an incredible experience. Having all the fans around is what makes it special. We’re thrilled to be back.”
In other news, Marcus Rashford is doubtful for Saturday’s match after falling ill and missing training. “Rashford has been running a fever and didn’t train yesterday or today,” Flick noted. “I’m not sure if he will be available tomorrow.”
Additionally, Lamine Yamal is cleared to play against Athletic, having missed international duty after undergoing treatment for a groin issue that brought up some criticism from the Spanish federation regarding Barcelona’s management of his situation.
Flick defended the club’s choices, stating: “Lamine is one of our players, and we take good care of him, just like the national team does. It was a good decision for him not to participate in the two international matches. He’s been dedicated and disciplined in handling this injury, which is a big step for him.”
Barcelona will also be without two key midfielders: suspended Frenkie de Jong and injured Pedri.
Pedri may recover from a muscle tear in his left thigh in time for the upcoming Champions League match against Chelsea next Tuesday, but Flick emphasized that there’s no rush for his return.
“We aren’t pressuring him, but he’s making good progress,” the Barcelona manager said. “He should be back soon.”
As Week 13 of the season approaches, Barcelona trails LaLiga leaders Real Madrid by three points.
This report includes information from ESPN’s Sam Marsden, the Associated Press, and PA.