Hansi Flick admits Barcelona star asked not to play vs Girona | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has confirmed that Raphinha’s absence from his line-up to face Girona came owing to a slight fitness concern.

Barcelona were of course back in action a short time ago.

Taking to the pitch for the 2nd time in the space of less than 72 hours, the Blaugrana welcomed Catalan rivals Girona to Montjuïc for a La Liga clash.

When all was said and done, Barca made short work of their neighbours, to the tune of a 4-1 triumph.

En route to as much, though, the aforementioned Raphinha played no part, watching on from the bench for the entirety of the 90 minutes.

Speaking to the media on the back of the full-time whistle, the subject of his attacking standout’s wellbeing was therefore put to Hansi Flick.

And Barcelona’s headmaster went on to admit:

“Raphinha didn’t play due to discomfort. He was honest and told me he wasn’t fully recovered… Now we hope he’ll be in better shape for Wednesday.”

Conor Laird – GSFN