FC Barcelona will head into their next Champions League challenge severely weakened in attack. Both Raphinha and Ferran Torres missed Monday’s training session and have been ruled out of the clash against Olympiacos, dealing a significant blow to Hansi Flick, who continues to manage an increasingly crowded injury list.

Two key attackers sidelined

Ferran Torres is still recovering from the muscle discomfort that forced him to withdraw from Spain’s national team during the recent international break. Meanwhile, Raphinha remains on an individual recovery plan as he aims to be fit for El Clásico against Real Madrid this Sunday.

They join a growing list of absentees that includes Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, Joan García, and the long-term injuries of Gavi and Marc-André ter Stegen. With so many players unavailable, Flick’s attacking options are down to the bare minimum ahead of a crucial European night at Montjuïc.

Youth reinforcements from Barça Atlètic

Given the limited first-team options, Flick once again turned to the academy for reinforcements. Monday’s session featured youngsters like Toni Fernández (who debuted in LaLiga against Girona), Dro, Jofre, Xavi Espart, Juan Hernández, Kochen, and Éder Aller.

The inclusion of these academy players provides depth and tactical flexibility to a squad that, despite its injury woes, continues to show resilience. Their dramatic 2-1 win over Girona last weekend served as a much-needed morale boost for a team determined to fight through adversity.

Flick’s pressure — and opportunity

Following their 1-2 defeat to PSG in the previous Champions League match, Barcelona urgently need a win to stay alive in the race for qualification. José Luis Mendilibar’s Olympiacos won’t be an easy opponent, but the Catalans remain favorites to take all three points at home.

Flick, aware of the magnitude of the challenge, will have to find creative solutions without two of his most decisive wingers. The German coach is placing his trust in the collective spirit of the squad — and particularly in Lamine Yamal and João Félix — to carry the team forward.

This game will once again test Barcelona’s ability to rise above setbacks. With El Clásico looming, Flick knows that a victory against Olympiacos could serve as the perfect confidence boost — and a reminder that, even without their stars, Barça’s ambition in Europe remains alive.