Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has confirmed that a leading member of the club’s attacking ranks departed the club’s latest outing prematurely owing to a fitness complaint.
The player in question? Raphinha.
Wide-man Raphinha was for his part in from the off once more on Thursday night, as Barcelona returned to La Liga action in a meeting with Real Oviedo.
En route to an eventual 3-1 comeback victory for the Blaugrana, however, the Brazilian was hooked during the 2nd-half.
This call came as something of a surprise, with the visitors to the Carlos Tartiere, at the time, having been desperately searching for a goal.
As alluded to above, however, an explanation for precisely why Raphinha was hauled off has since been forthcoming.
Drawn on the situation following the full-time whistle on Thursday night, Hansi Flick admitted:
“Raphinha had discomfort in his leg. I think he is doing well, but we have to wait to find out more.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
