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barcelonaInjury crisis worsens after star forward’s confirmation Rafinha would not be suitable to join ancient On Sunday.
The 28-year-old, who has not recovered from a leg muscle injury, joins a number of high-profile absentees including Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi and goalkeepers Joan Garcia and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Barca’s injury crisis has left their squad badly weakened ahead of one of the most important fixtures of the season, with 10 players sidelined since August.
Despite Raphinha’s setback, the Spanish champions remain optimistic they can rely on key players ferran torres, Jules Conde, Andreas Christensen And frankie de jongAll of whom participated in Saturday’s team practice.
Assistant coach Marcus Sorg confirmed, “Any team will miss Raphinha, but the situation is the same. He is injured.”
“We’ll see if Ferrán (Torres) starts, we’ll decide tomorrow. Jules Kounde also trained this morning and can play. I still have no information about the starting XI.”
Torres left Spain’s camp early due to hamstring fatigue, while De Jong missed three training sessions this week due to illness and Conde was forced out of the 6-1 Champions League win over Olympiacos in midweek with a foot injury.
Injuries have further complicated the selection headache for the crucial clash against the Catalans real MadridWhich is two points ahead of second-placed Barca after eight games.
Sorg will take over as Blaugrana manager on Sunday Hansi Flick He was suspended after being shown a red card for allegedly protesting a referee’s decision in the final minutes of the match during last week’s 2-1 win over Verona.
Sorg acknowledged that Flick would be missed but insisted that the team would be ready.
“Flick will be missed because he is one of the most important parts of the team,” he said.
“I think Flick should be kept on the sidelines, because the players trust him, he gives them confidence. His absence has an impact. But Flick is in good mood, positive, motivated.”
Despite the growing challenges, Sorg expressed confidence about taking charge of the iconic fixture.
Barcelona made it four consecutive wins over Real in three competitions last season, scoring 16 goals, including a 4-0 defeat at the Bernabeu and a 5-2 Super Cup final win.
“It’s an honor to be on the bench leading this team. It will be a difficult match and I hope we can show our strength,” said Sorg, who faces new Real manager Xabi Alonso.
“Real have progressed since last year, they press higher up the pitch, I think that has changed (from last term). You never know what can happen at the Bernabeu. We have to control our emotions and we are ready.”
reuters