Barcelona ace takes next step in recovery but will still miss Galatasaray clash

Barcelona ace takes next step in recovery but will still miss Galatasaray clash Barcelona have received an encouraging update on Raphinha, with the Brazilian winger returning to pitch training as he continues his recovery from injury.  Journalist Santi Ovalle confirmed the development on El Larguero , offering a positive sign for Hansi Flick as Barcelona go through a demanding run of fixtures. Raphinha has already been ruled out of Barcelona’s Champions League meeting with Galatasaray after missing the final training session before the Getafe game.  However, his latest step towards recovery suggests progress, even though the club is not rushing him back into action. Given his form and importance, Barcelona’s priority is to ensure the forward fully recovers before returning to competitive football, particularly with important matches approaching, including El Clasico. Raphinha injury update: Brazil forward returns to pitch training Raphinha had been working individually before Barcelona’s meeting with Getafe, taking to the pitch ahead of his teammates but remaining outside the group session.  His return to pitch training marks another stage in the recovery process, although it does not automatically mean he is ready to play. Raphinha takes another step towards complete recovery. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Before the Getafe fixture, Flick stressed that the Brazilian’s injury was not serious but explained 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 against tomorrow [vs Getafe] or against Galatasaray,” confirmed the manager. Simply put, Barcelona would rather allow Raphinha additional recovery time than risk another setback by bringing him back prematurely. Flick prioritises Raphinha recovery over Galatasaray return According to Ovalle, Raphinha could potentially have been called up for the Galatasaray match if it were a decisive, must-win situation.  However, Flick wants his in-form forward to complete his recovery instead of accelerating his return for the Champions League fixture. Raphinha will not play against Galatasaray. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Notably, Raphinha is an important attacking option, and protecting his availability for the longer term is more valuable than taking an unnecessary risk in Istanbul. His return to the pitch is therefore encouraging, but the next stages of his rehabilitation will determine when he can rejoin full team training and resume playing. Barcelona target Raphinha return ahead of El Clasico With Galatasaray ruled out, attention will turn to whether Raphinha can return in time for Barcelona’s upcoming fixtures, with Barcelona playing Real Betis away this weekend.  In any way, the El Clasico is among the key matches on the horizon, making his recovery particularly important for Flick’s attacking plans. Barcelona have not confirmed a return date, and individual pitch work should not be mistaken for full fitness.  Nevertheless, the latest update shows progress and gives the club reason for optimism.