Barcelona injury update: Raphinha, Rashford out, key midfielder back in training ahead of Atletico clash | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to face Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-finals with a place in the final at stake, but Hansi Flick will have to navigate the first leg without several important players. The opening clash of the two-legged tie will be played at the Metropolitano, making the task even more demanding for La Blaugrana.

According to Mundo Deportivo, both Raphinha and Marcus Rashford will miss the first leg. The Brazilian winger continues to work individually in the gym as he recovers from an adductor overload in his right leg.

Although the initial estimate suggested a ten-day absence, his recovery has progressed more slowly than expected, and the coaching staff does not see him as fit enough to feature, let alone start. Raphinha is instead targeting a return for the upcoming La Liga fixture against Girona and had already hinted himself that he would be very tight on time for the Atletico match.

Rashford is another significant absence after failing to train with the group. The club confirmed that the English forward is suffering from discomfort in his left knee following a knock sustained in the recent league win over Mallorca. As a precaution, Barcelona have decided not to risk him in such a demanding fixture.

Pedri is also unavailable as he continues his recovery. While there is optimism that the Spanish international could return before the end of the month, no specific comeback date has been set.

There is some positive news for Flick, however, as Frenkie de Jong has returned to group training. Although the Dutch midfielder is not yet at full fitness, his availability provides a timely boost, especially with Barcelona missing key players in attack and midfield.

With the tie finely poised and key absences on both sides, Barcelona will look to rely on squad depth to secure a positive result away from home before the return leg at Camp Nou.