Rashford Knee Issue and Raphinha Thigh Strain Rule Them Out vs Atletico Madrid

Barcelona will be without Marcus Rashford and Raphinha for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Thursday, dealing a significant blow to the Catalan side ahead of the clash at the Metropolitano Stadium. Both natural left wingers are unavailable due to injury concerns, forcing coach Hansi Flick to consider alternative options.

Raphinha remains sidelined with a thigh strain, while Rashford is nursing a knee problem after taking a knock during Barcelona’s 3-0 La Liga victory over Real Mallorca last weekend. The England international did not train on Wednesday. “Marcus is not able to play; he got a hit, and it's painful, and we have to take care of this,” Flick told reporters, confirming his absence for the crucial encounter.

Flick acknowledged the setback but expressed confidence in his squad’s depth. “I think this is not good news, but in the end I believe in my team always. When it's like this, the situation is not easy; we grow, and this is also necessary for tomorrow,” he said. The German coach added that the club must proceed cautiously with Raphinha’s recovery, noting the Brazilian’s high-intensity playing style and the need to avoid aggravating the injury.

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In their absence, Flick could deploy Ferran Torres or Dani Olmo out of position on the left flank. Barcelona are also contending with longer-term injuries to Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen, further stretching the squad during a decisive phase of the season as they aim to defend their Copa del Rey title.

The build-up to the semi-final has also seen defender Ronald Araujo speak publicly about his struggles with anxiety and depression over the past 18 months. Flick praised the Uruguayan’s openness, calling him “very strong,” and emphasized the responsibility of coaches to care for players’ well-being. The match represents a stern test for Barcelona as they navigate both injury setbacks and intense competition for silverware.

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