Hansi Flick confirms Raphinha fit, provides updates on Pedri, Gavi, and Rashford ahead of Girona vs Barcelona | OneFootball

FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has offered a timely boost ahead of the La Liga clash against Girona by confirming the return of one of his most influential players while also clarifying the recovery timelines of several others.

The Catalans were significantly weakened in their recent outing against Atletico Madrid, where they suffered a heavy 4–0 defeat in the first leg of the Copa del Rey. The absence of key figures such as Raphinha, Pedri, and Marcus Rashford was felt throughout the match, compounding an already difficult night for FC Barcelona.

Speaking to the media ahead of tonight’s league fixture yesterday, as reported by Mundo Deportivo, Flick confirmed that Raphinha has fully recovered from the adductor discomfort that sidelined him for the last three official matches and will be available for selection.

“Raphinha will be able to play. He is very important because he gives us a lot. We miss him when he’s not there. You can see in training how he increases the team’s tempo and intensity. I’ve said it more than once: for me, last season he was the best player in the world.”

While the German coach stopped short of confirming whether the Brazilian winger would start or feature from the bench, his availability comes as a major lift for a side looking to restore rhythm and intensity after the recent Cup setback.

In contrast, Hansi Flick ruled out any chance of Marcus Rashford returning for the Girona match, stressing the need for patience in his recovery process.

“Marcus Rashford is ruled out for tomorrow. He’s much better, but he has to take things step by step.”

The Barcelona coach also addressed the situations of Gavi and Pedri, both of whom remain unavailable but are progressing positively. Flick urged caution with Gavi, hinting that a return is more likely next month rather than imminently.

“With Gavi, we have to be careful. What I’ve seen in training, I’ve liked. Maybe he won’t be ready in February, but I think he will be in March.”

Pedri’s outlook appears more encouraging, with Flick expressing confidence that the midfielder will make his comeback at some point before the end of February, although no exact date has been set.

With Raphinha back in the fold and other key players edging closer to a return, Barcelona will hope these reinforcements can help them maintain consistency in La Liga and mount a response after their Copa del Rey setback.