AFCON 2025
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has revealed the reason behind benching winger Raphinha during their 1-1 LaLiga draw against Real Betis on Saturday.
Gavi gave Barcelona the lead early in the game before Real Betis restored parity in the 17th minute, thanks to Natan’s header.
Flick opted to start Ferran Torres ahead of Raphinha, who was brought on as a substitute in the 57th minute as Barcelona struggled to find the winning goal.
Explaining his decision, Flick said in the post-match interview, “No injury… He’s played several matches for his country, and we want to be careful with him.”
Raphinha has had a standout season, scoring 24 goals and registering 13 assists in all competitions for Barcelona, pushing the narrative that he deserves this year’s Ballon d’Or.
The Brazilian is expected to return to the starting lineup for Flick’s side when they face Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday.
