Barcelona captain set to start on the bench against Getafe after latest fitness update

Barcelona captain set to start on the bench against Getafe after latest fitness update Barcelona are increasingly likely to take a cautious approach with Raphinha against Getafe, with the captain expected to begin Saturday’s game on the bench rather than risk aggravating his recent muscular issue. According to AS , Hansi Flick has been able to work with almost his entire squad during preparations for the match.  Raphinha, however, remains the notable exception, with the Brazilian still training away from the group just two days before kick-off. Raphinha injury concerns could see Barcelona captain benched It must be remembered that Raphinha returned from Brazil duty after experiencing a small muscular swelling in the back of his right thigh following the second friendly against Australia. The subsequent examinations in Barcelona did not detect an actual injury , providing some relief for the Catalan club.  Raphinha is likely to be on the bench vs Getafe. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) However, the forward has not yet returned to full team training, leaving Flick with little reason to take unnecessary risks. The Brazilian has spent the opening part of the week undergoing intensive physiotherapy at the Ciutat Esportiva in an effort to bring down the swelling.  Although the initial plan was for him to rejoin the squad on Thursday , his recovery has not progressed quickly enough for that to become a certainty. Barcelona take no chances with Raphinha The timing makes a cautious decision particularly logical for Flick, as Barcelona are entering a demanding run of fixtures , meaning risking their captain for one match could create a much bigger problem if his condition worsens. Gabriel Jesus could make his first start for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) With medical tests having ruled out a significant injury, the priority now appears to be ensuring Raphinha returns at 100% rather than forcing him into the starting XI. A place on the bench would allow Barcelona to use him only if absolutely necessary. Meanwhile. Raphinha’s likely absence from the starting lineup could open the door for Gabriel Jesus to make his first start for Barcelona. The Brazilian forward has been waiting for an opportunity to establish himself after arriving at the club, and Getafe could provide it if Flick follows the expected cautious approach with his captain.