BREAKING: Raphinha could be included in the Barça squad and play against Real Madrid

FC Barcelona have been dealt a series of injury blows in recent weeks, leaving the squad stretched thin as they prepare for a crucial El Clásico showdown against Real Madrid. But amid the concerns, a sliver of positive news has emerged: winger Raphinha is making encouraging progress in his recovery and could possibly feature in the matchday squad.

Raphinha had picked up a hamstring issue during a recent fixture against Real Oviedo, forcing him out of action while the medical team assessed the extent of the damage. The uncertainty over his availability has loomed large in Barça’s planning given the limited attacking options currently available to coach Hansi Flick.

Recent medical reports have provided optimism, with Raphinha responding well to treatment and showing positive signs in his rehabilitation. The club’s internal assessments indicate that if his recovery continues at the current pace, he could be fit enough to make the squad for El Clásico, even if his playing time is managed carefully. There is growing belief within the club that he could at least make a late cameo in the high-stakes encounter.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has been open about the injury crisis facing his side and admitted that Raphinha’s return would be a major boost. However, he also emphasized that the medical staff will not take unnecessary risks that could worsen the Brazilian’s condition. The focus remains on ensuring Raphinha’s long-term fitness while also providing the team with much-needed reinforcement ahead of the massive clash.

The timing could not be more critical. Robert Lewandowski remains sidelined with a hamstring tear, and Dani Olmo is also unavailable due to a calf problem. These absences have significantly reduced Barça’s attacking options, placing extra pressure on youngsters like Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres. In this situation, Raphinha’s potential return could add creativity, pace, and experience to an otherwise depleted front line.

With El Clásico scheduled for October 26 at the Santiago Bernabéu, Barcelona’s medical and coaching staff are treading carefully. There is speculation that Raphinha could be tested in the upcoming Champions League match against Olympiacos as a way to gauge his match readiness before the high-profile encounter with Madrid.

Meanwhile, the rest of the squad is slowly regaining fitness. Lamine Yamal and Fermín López have resumed partial training, though neither is expected to be fully fit before the Clásico. This situation could see Flick call up a few promising youngsters from La Masia to fill the bench, highlighting the club’s growing reliance on its academy products this season.

Real Madrid, too, are dealing with injury concerns of their own. Kylian Mbappé’s fitness remains in question, while key defender Ferland Mendy has only recently returned to full training. These issues on both sides have added an extra layer of intrigue to what is already one of the most anticipated matches in world football.

Should Raphinha make the squad against Real Madrid, it would be a huge morale boost for Barcelona. His direct style of play, ability to take on defenders, and eye for goal could prove decisive in unsettling Madrid’s defense. Even if he starts from the bench, his presence alone could give the team greater attacking flexibility.

As the countdown to El Clásico continues, all eyes will be on Barcelona’s training sessions and medical updates. Fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of Raphinha’s availability, as his return could significantly influence the outcome of the match. If cleared, his inclusion—whether as a starter or a substitute—will undoubtedly be one of the main talking points heading into football’s most iconic rivalry.