Barcelona return to LaLiga action on Saturday as the league leaders host Getafe at the Spotify Camp Nou. Flick also confirmed that goalkeeper Joan García and forward Gabriel Jesus are expected to start, with the coach balancing selection decisions against a demanding run of fixtures.
Raphinha will miss the Getafe match and Barcelona’s Champions League meeting with Galatasaray after experiencing discomfort during the international break. Flick said the scans had not revealed a serious injury but stressed that the club would not take unnecessary risks.
“The tests did not show a major injury, but we have to react and be concerned about him because he suffered three injuries last season. We will look after him,” Flick said. “He will not be available tomorrow or for the match in Istanbul against Galatasaray.”
De Jong is also unavailable, although his recovery is progressing. Flick suggested the midfielder could return for the game against Real Betis, but insisted that Barcelona would give him the time he needs.
“The development is good, there is no pain, but he needs time, and we will give him that,” the coach said. He also indicated that De Jong could play in defence if required.
Gabriel Jesus is in line to start against Getafe after impressing in training.
“The idea is for him to start. He has improved a lot and adapted very well. His strength is inside the area. He has trained well, and I like what I see from him,” Flick said.
Joan García will also start, despite competition from other goalkeepers. Flick said the club had several options but believed García was ready.
The Barcelona coach acknowledged the strain of playing five matches in two weeks after the international break. “I am not delighted with the schedule, but I cannot change it. We have to be ready and win,” he said.
Flick also praised Spain’s performances and the way Luis de la Fuente manages his squad. He described Spain as the best team in the world and said he appreciated the distribution of minutes among the players.
Yamal was singled out for particular praise after his displays for club and country.
“His level is fantastic, also with Spain. I watched him in London,” Flick said. “He will be the best player in the world, if he is not already. He is very close.”
Flick said Yamal’s willingness to keep improving was encouraging, while noting that young players can recover more quickly from demanding schedules. He also rejected the idea of using Marc Bernal as a centre-back, arguing that the talented midfielder would develop better in his natural position.
Against a Getafe side he described as difficult to break down, Barcelona will look to maintain their winning start despite the absences.