Brazilian winger Raphinha returns from international duty weary, potentially handing the English forward a coveted starting chance against Valencia.
FC Barcelona is set to return from the international break this weekend with a crucial La Liga clash against Valencia, and new manager Hansi Flick has a key decision to make on the left wing.
The choice revolves around the condition of star winger Raphinha. The Brazilian international returns to Catalonia carrying significant fatigue after a grueling trip with his national team. After playing 80 minutes against Chile, Raphinha then traveled to the high altitude of Bolivia, where he featured for another half-hour. The demanding schedule has left the €90 million-rated attacker less than 100% fit.
This fatigue could open the door for Marcus Rashford to make his first major impact since his summer move. According to reports from Diario AS, Flick is considering handing the English forward a start. Rashford, who scored for England during the break, has appeared in all three of Barcelona’s league games so far but is still searching for his footing.
His first start against Levante began brightly before he faded and was substituted at halftime. While subsequent substitute appearances haven’t turned games, he has shown promising flashes of the talent Barcelona invested in.
With Raphinha likely in need of rest and a Champions League opener against Newcastle looming, a start against Valencia offers Rashford the perfect opportunity to find the rhythm and confidence he needs to truly launch his Barcelona career.
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