Barcelona’s injury problems deepened on Friday with both Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan Garcia sidelined for several weeks.
The Brazilian forward sustained a hamstring injury and is expected to miss around three weeks. Garcia, meanwhile, suffered a ruptured meniscus in his left knee that requires surgery, ruling him out for four to six weeks depending on recovery.
Barcelona are already without midfielder Gavi, who faces up to five months on the sidelines after knee surgery, while Fermin López also remains unavailable. However, teenagers Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde are expected to return this weekend.
Second in La Liga and two points adrift of leaders Real Madrid, Hansi Flick’s side remain unbeaten this season. They host Real Sociedad on Sunday before a crucial Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain on wednesday.
Garcia, signed from Espanyol in June and ever-present so far this season, leaves a gap in goal with first-choice Marc-André ter Stegen also out injured. Wojciech Szczęsny is set to deputise between the posts.
