Photo via BBC Sport

Raphinha's brilliant Barcelona start interrupted by injury concerns

Barcelona attacker Raphinha has picked up a right thigh problem while representing Brazil against Australia, leading to concerns from manager Hansi Flick. Despite the manager noting the issue is minor, caution is required given the player's history of three fitness setbacks last term, while Flick also questioned the necessity of long-haul travel for international friendlies.

Gabriel Jesus, signed from Arsenal in September, is expected to fill in for the upcoming fixtures against Getafe and Galatasaray, though options like Anthony Gordon, Dani Olmo, and Karim Adeyemi can also feature centrally. Barcelona currently leads La Liga by five points ahead of Atletico Madrid and Real Betis, following a strong start featuring 36 goals scored and eight conceded across competitions.

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