Barcelona duo OK for Copa del Rey clash against Albacete after injury scare | OneFootball

One of the worrying points from Barcelona’s win over Elche last night was the fitness of Raphinha and Jules Kounde – two players who left the field injured and raised the alarm bells ringing in Catalonia.

Reports in the morning relayed that neither player’s injuries were concerning to the point that they would threaten their immediate participation, but it appeared set that they would be rested for the cup clash midweek.

Kounde, Raphinha all OK

Now, however, SPORT brings to light that Raphinha and Kounde may not even have their participation against Albacete under threat, in what comes as massive news for Hansi Flick.

Indeed, as reported by the outlet, both Kounde and Raphinha will be available for Barcelona’s game against Albacete midweek, and it will be up to the manager as to what capacity he utilises them in.

Kounde, who left the field with cramps towards the end of the game, arrived at the club facilities to train on Sunday despite Flick handing the squad the day off.

Kounde arrived to train on an off-day on Sunday. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The French international was joined by the likes of Gavi, Pedri, Andreas Christensen, Pau Cubarsi, Fermin Lopez, and Ferran Torres.

Given that he has already returned for recovery work, there are positive sensations around his situation, and Kounde could well be available for the manager to count on for the midweek clash.

The same situation exists with the Brazilian winger, who was taken off at half-time through precaution. Given that it was just minor discomfort, he too could travel with the team to face Albacete.

Despite the players’ situations, Flick could well opt to rest them and rotate his team moderately for the cup clash. Given that their opponents eliminated Real Madrid, they will not be taken lightly in any capacity.