Flick explains Barcelona captain’s absence from lineup vs Real Betis – ‘Have to take care of him’ | OneFootball

As FC Barcelona get set to take on Real Betis in a few minutes, manager Hansi Flick spoke to the broadcasters, where he discussed the team’s starting lineup as well as the objective heading into the match.

Raphinha’s absence was one of the most notable decisions in the lineup made by Flick, with the Barcelona captain being left on the bench.

While reports suggested that the winger was dealing with an adductor strain, the manager clarified the situation, saying:

“He’s fine, but we also have to take care of him because the last match against Atlético was very intense, and even more so for him.”

Another key point from the starting XI was the return of Roony Bardghji to the lineup, with this being his first appearance after five games.

Benched. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The Swede will be playing as the No. 10 tonight, with Flick explaining the decision saying: “In training he shows how good he is, and we’ll see how he plays. I have a lot of confidence in him; he’s a good player and deserves to play.”

Flick also spoke about Eric Garcia, who has settled into the midfield role.

“He is a very important player who can play in any position. We have Frenkie back, but the team was very good defensively and we do not want to change it,” the coach noted.

Talking about the match and the expectations from his team, Flick remarked: “I hope we can maintain the same level as the other day against a great team; it’s important that we get the three points.”

When assessing the opposition, Flick insisted that the focus remains on Barcelona.

“We’re more focused on ourselves. We know how they play, but the important thing is that we stick to our game plan. I’m very happy with the match against Atlético, but that’s in the past, and we need to maintain our level,” he explained.

Source: Mundo Deportivo