Barcelona received a major boost ahead of their long-awaited return to Camp Nou, with captain Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan Garcia both recovering from nearly two months out with leg injuries. Coach Hansi Flick confirmed that Garcia will start against Athletic Club on Saturday, while Raphinha will begin on the bench as he gradually works his way back to full fitness.
Flick expressed delight at having the Brazilian winger available again, saying, “The good news is Raphinha is back. I appreciate a lot what he can give the team.” The coach explained that the plan is to introduce him carefully, depending on how the match unfolds. Raphinha’s return marks an important moment as Barcelona looks to regain momentum after a period with several key players missing.
Their comeback coincides with a landmark occasion—the team’s first match at Camp Nou since May 2023. The stadium has been undergoing massive renovation work for more than two years. Besides that, forcing Barcelona to play home matches at the Olympic Stadium.
A Historic Return to Camp Nou
Saturday’s game is set to be an emotional occasion, as Barcelona reopens their iconic ground with a partially completed capacity of 45,401 seats. Although this is less than half of its pre-renovation size, the return marks a symbolic step forward for the club. When fully completed, the new Camp Nou will hold an impressive 105,000 fans.
Flick described his excitement after revisiting the pitch. “I went up the stairs and reached the pitch, and it was an unbelievable feeling,” he said. “We prefer to play in Camp Nou… it’s a football stadium, and this is what we like.” The atmosphere, even at reduced capacity, is expected to energize both players and supporters as Barcelona begins a new era in their refurbished home.
However, the build-up is not without challenges. Marcus Rashford remains a major doubt due to illness, having missed consecutive training sessions. His availability will depend on whether he recovers in time for matchday, leaving Flick uncertain about his role.
Read Also: Flick, Messi and a Rebuilding Barça: A Light Joke Amid Big Questions
Injury Updates and Player Management
In more positive news, Lamine Yamal has been cleared to play after undergoing treatment for a groin issue. His absence during the international break sparked criticism from the Spanish federation, but Flick defended Barcelona’s approach, emphasizing the club’s responsibility to protect their young talent.
“Lamine is our player, and of course we take care of him,” Flick stated. He praised the teenager’s discipline during his recovery and insisted that keeping him out of national team action was the right choice. Yamal’s return adds creativity and energy to Barcelona’s attack at a crucial time.
Meanwhile, the squad will still be without Frenkie de Jong, who is suspended, and Pedri, sidelined with a muscle tear. Although Pedri is progressing well, Flick insisted he would not be rushed back, even with an important Champions League clash against Chelsea approaching.
Barcelona’s Current Position in LaLiga
As Week 13 approaches, Barcelona trails Real Madrid by three points in the LaLiga standings. The return to Camp Nou and the recovery of key players offer renewed optimism as the team looks to close the gap at the top.
With heightened excitement around their renovated home and a squad beginning to regain fitness. Besides that, Barcelona hopes this moment marks the start of a stronger and more consistent run. The club’s focus now is on translating this positive momentum into results, starting with a crucial fixture against Athletic Club. Stay tuned for the latest La Liga news only at footballcoasters.co.uk.