Flick talks Raphinha, Jesus, De Jong, Joan Garcia, Bernal, Espart, Lamine ahead of Barcelona vs Getafe

Flick talks Raphinha, Jesus, De Jong, Joan Garcia, Bernal, Espart, Lamine ahead of Barcelona vs Getafe Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has offered several important updates ahead of the home clash against Getafe, with Gabriel Jesus in line to lead the attack and Frenkie de Jong expected to miss out despite returning to training. The German coach also discussed Joan Garcia’s fitness, Raphinha’s recurring injury concerns, Lamine Yamal’s development and the possibility of using Marc Bernal in defence.  With Barcelona facing a congested run of fixtures , Flick stressed the importance of managing his squad carefully while maintaining the team’s competitive standards. Gabriel Jesus set to start Barcelona have been assessing Raphinha’s condition, as he completed individual work ahead of the Getafe match.  Flick confirmed that the player would not feature, explaining why the club was taking a cautious approach. “He doesn’t have a serious injury. He had too many injuries last season, and we have to be careful. He won’t play tomorrow.” Gabriel Jesus is expected to benefit from that absence, with Flick indicating that the striker is ready to start after making progress in recent weeks. Gabriel Jesus will start against Getafe. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) “The idea is for him to start tomorrow. He’s improved a lot and fits our style. He’s doing very well, he’s ready.” Barcelona will go through five matches in a short period, leaving Flick with important decisions over player workload. Asked about the schedule, he said, “It’s part of our job. I can’t change it. We have to be prepared for the upcoming matches.” The coach refused to look beyond Getafe, despite the demanding run ahead. “No, we always aim to do our best in the next match. Getafe won’t be an easy game; they’ve qualified for the Conference.  “It’s never easy to play against them, but our focus is on Getafe.” Frenkie de Jong and Joan Garcia decisions ahead of Getafe De Jong has returned to training , but Barcelona are not rushing the midfielder back into competitive action. Flick revealed that the Dutchman is targeting the subsequent match against Betis. “Our plan is for him to play in the next match against Betis. He’s not in pain and can do everything, but he needs more time and we’re going to give it to him.” The Barcelona manager also confirmed that De Jong could be considered for a defensive role if required. “Yes, he can play there. Frenkie is one of the options .” Joan Garcia, meanwhile, appears closer to a starting place after encouraging signs in training. “Livakovic is always an option, as is Tek. But from what we saw today, Joan is in great shape and I think he’ll be able to start.” Raphinha’s international commitments were also discussed following his injury concerns.  Flick acknowledged the Brazilian’s desire to represent his country but pointed to the limits of what clubs can control. “It’s the national team and everyone wants to play for their country. That’s Raphinha’s mindset. We can’t change the fixtures.” Flick backs Lamine and considers Bernal defensive option Despite Raphinha’s possible absence, Flick was encouraged by Barcelona’s pressing during training and believes the team can maintain that aspect of their game. Flick gave timeline for Frenkie de Jong’s return. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) “In training today, I saw some very good things in terms of pressing. They pressed very well when they lost the ball; it’s part of our mentality.” Bernal could provide another option at centre-back, having worked in the position during training. Flick also praised the youngster’s recent performances. “He’s played there a few times in training. He’s a very young player and can play in many positions. He’s been doing very well in recent matches; he’s playing at a high level. He could be an option.” Flick also expressed confidence in Yamal after his performances for Barcelona and Spain, while reminding observers of the teenager’s age. “He’s played very well for us in the first few matches and has been impressive for the national team. Lamine is 19 years old – we mustn’t forget that. “As far as I’m concerned, the minutes he’s played are fine. Let’s hope he maintains the standard he’s shown in these matches.  “He loves playing football; when he’s confident, he’s incredible. He’ll be the best in the world.” Finally, Flick welcomed Xavi Espart’s contract renewal and explained why competition for places remains important, even with Joao Cancelo also available. “We have several positions where there are two or three players who can fill that role. That’s what I want to see in training – that anyone can play.  “It’s brilliant to be able to enjoy Xavi Espart’s company for many years to come,” he concluded. Source: AS