Just in: Raphinha out, another Barcelona forward misses training ahead of Atletico clash | OneFootball

Barcelona’s preparations for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid have taken a worrying turn, with several key players missing from training.

The biggest concern surrounds Raphinha, who did not take part in the latest training session. 

According to journalist Alfredo Martinez, the Brazilian winger is already ruled out for the first leg against Atletico. 

This is another setback for the player, who had already missed the recent matches against Albacete and Mallorca due to physical problems.

Marcus Rashford is also a serious doubt. The English forward did not train with the group on Wednesday, which has increased fears about his availability. 

He had picked up a heavy knock to his knee during the game against Mallorca, and the issue appears to be more serious than first expected.

More trouble for Hansi Flick

Providing an update on the situation, Martinez confirmed the worrying news, writing, “Raphinha is not training ahead of the game against Atletico Madrid. He will be out for the first leg.” 

Rashford will be doubtful for the Atletico Madrid clash. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

He also revealed the wider situation inside the squad, adding that “Marcus Rashford is also absent and Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen are also out.”

The update on Rashford’s condition has only added to the tension around the camp. Martinez explained that “Rashford didn’t train with the group yesterday. Against Mallorca, he had a bad knock on the knee. 

“He may be out of the game tomorrow.” 

With the forward still not training normally, his presence in Madrid remains uncertain.

For Hansi Flick, this creates a real selection dilemma, as both Raphinha and Rashford are regular options on the left side of the attack, and losing both at the same time forces the manager to rethink his plans for the first leg.

There was, however, a small positive sign from the training session. Several academy players were called up to work with the first team, including Tommy Marques, Jofre Torrents, Brian Farinas, and Juan Hernandez. 

Their inclusion suggests that opportunities could open up if the injury problems continue.