Under persistent rain at the Joan Gamper Training Ground, FC Barcelona completed their final session before traveling to San Sebastián. In a workout marked by a prior tactical analysis in the video room—which delayed the start by thirty minutes—the key news emerged on the pitch at the Tito Vilanova Field: Raphinha did not train with the group.

The Brazilian, a key piece in Hansi Flick’s system, worked individually in the gym due to lingering discomfort from an old knock. Although the club remains confident that he will travel to Donostia, his place in the starting lineup is, for now, uncertain.

Movement in the Locker Room: Between the Academy and the Transfer Market

The session left powerful images open to interpretation. The most talked-about moment was the long private conversation between Hansi Flick and Marcus Rashford just before training exercises began. With the transfer market and role management always looming in the background, the German coach’s gesture toward the English forward suggests a tactical adjustment or a crucial boost of confidence ahead of Sunday’s clash.

While the first team remained shielded from the spotlight, the academy also played a role. With Gavi and Christensen sidelined, and regular Barça Atlètic players Kochen, Torrents, and Marqués unavailable due to commitments with the reserve side, Flick called up youth prospects Pol Bernabéu and Lorenzo Oertli to join the session.

The discordant note was struck by Pedro “Dro” Fernández, absent not only due to physical issues but also because of his desire to leave the club imminently. With Frenkie de Jong returning after serving his suspension in the Copa del Rey, Barça will travel this Sunday at 11:00 a.m. with the mission of conquering the Reale Arena, hoping their Brazilian captain can overcome the pain in time.

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