Barcelona Confirm Raphinha Start as Defensive Crisis Hits PSG Clash
Barcelona will start Raphinha against Paris Saint-Germain, but Hansi Flick must do without Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde after both defenders were ruled out of Tuesday’s trip to the Parc des Princes.
The Champions League test arrives with Barcelona’s defensive resources under severe strain. Gerard Martin also came off in the win in Seville after reporting discomfort in his foot, making a starting role in Paris appear unlikely.
Flick has begun weighing midfield-based solutions for the back line. Frenkie de Jong, recently passed fit ahead of the Real Betis game, has played at centre-back in the past under Ronald Koeman. Rodri also has experience in central defence from his Manchester City career.
The Barcelona coach also named Alex Campos as an available option and sought to calm concerns over the growing absence list.
“Frenkie de Jong is able to play, and Alex Campos is here too,” Flick said. “I am sure it will be fine. Maybe this is not our best period, but we have to deal with it.”
Raphinha set for PSG start
Barcelona have received a major attacking lift, with Flick confirming Raphinha will be selected from the opening whistle against the French champions.
“He will start tomorrow,” Flick said when asked about the forward.
Flick wants his side to take confidence from an 11-match winning run, even as they prepare to face a PSG team he described as the world’s strongest over the past two years.
“Tomorrow is a good examination for us,” he said. “I want the team to play with belief, like a team that has won 11 straight matches. We face the best side in the world from the last two years, and it is an opportunity for us.”
What happens next
Barcelona’s schedule also includes an upcoming Clasico, but Flick made clear that PSG is the sole focus for now.
“The next game is always the biggest one, so tomorrow is the biggest one,” he said.
There is still hope that Kounde could return quickly, with Flick targeting the end of the week for the French defender’s recovery.
