Minimum service for FC Barcelona yesterday at the opening of the 28th day of La Liga. The Culés hosted Real Mallorca, certainly qualified for the Copa del Rey final against Athletic, but in danger in the league with this 15th place, still 8 points from the red zone. This short success (1-0, Yamal’s goal in the 73rd) is good for the Catalans since it allows them to put a little pressure on Real Madrid, leader with 5 more units, who host Celta de Vigo tomorrow at Santiago -Bernabéu.
As Xavi said in a pre-match press conference, La Liga is not yet played as we might have believed it to be a few weeks ago. Yesterday evening could have taken a different turn, in particular due to this incident of play shortly after the half hour mark. Broken down in the area, Raphinha certainly obtained a penalty, which Gündoğan did not convert, but did not get up not really contact. In the process, the Brazilian was replaced by Fermin and caused new concern for Barça.
Raphinha hit
He appeared to be suffering from discomfort in his right Achilles tendon. This is already his third injury this season where he has missed around ten matches. Above all, it comes at the worst time since Barça hosts Naples next Tuesday in the round of 16 second leg of the Champions League, then moves immediately to the Wanda Metropolitano pitch against Atlético de Madrid. “Raphinha told me it was just a hard blow. He should be available for Naples.reassured Xavi after the meeting.
The Catalan media, starting with Sport, are not as confident even though they recognize that this injury will not be that long. In the immediate future, the former Rennais will remain in care and join an infirmary which is already overflowing. Balde, Gavi are injured for a moment. Pedri, Ferran Torres, Frenkie de Jong should be absent for the C1, while uncertainty remains for Marcos Alonso. Xavi will have to tinker for one of the most important matches of the season.
