👀 It’s not just Koundé, Raphinha also misses training ahead of El Clásico | OneFootball

When everything indicated a return, Barcelona suffered an unexpected blow. Raphinha was the major absence in the team's training just 48 hours before the clash with Real Madrid.

The Brazilian winger did not take the field at the Sports City, which reignites doubts about his participation in El Clásico, according to information from Sport.

The absence caused surprise and some concern in the Barça environment. Raphinha had successfully completed the last two training sessions with the group, leaving great impressions and leading to the belief that his return was imminent.

The expectation was that he could at least play a few minutes at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The reason for his last-minute withdrawal has not been officially disclosed, but missing a training session so close to the classic indicates that his recovery is not as advanced as expected.

Raphinha's presence, with his speed and strength in one-on-one situations, is considered a key piece in Barça's attack.

In defense, the concern also continues with Jules Koundé. The French defender worked in the gym and stayed off the field for the second consecutive day due to a knock.

Although the club preaches caution, missing two consecutive training sessions before the classic may compromise his starting position or physical performance at the Santiago Bernabéu.

On the other hand, there is good news: the Dutchman Frenkie de Jong returned to training with the group.

The midfielder, already recovered from gastroenteritis, is available for the game, bringing relief to the culé midfield in a moment of high tension.

The Barça coach will have to adjust his plans in light of Raphinha's likely absence and the uncertainty about Koundé.

The club arrives at the Classic with two important players in the medical department, which undoubtedly increases the pressure on the tactical scheme for the big duel at the Bernabéu.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

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