Barcelona captain set to start on the bench against Getafe after latest fitness update

According to a report by Barca Universal on October 8, 2026, Barcelona captain Raphinha is increasingly expected to start Saturday’s La Liga encounter against Getafe on the bench as the club carefully manages his recent muscular discomfort.

The Brazilian winger returned from international duty with a minor muscular swelling in the back of his right thigh following Brazil’s second friendly match against Australia. Although medical examinations conducted after his return to Barcelona found no actual injury, the 29-year-old has not yet resumed full training with his teammates.

According to AS, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been able to work with nearly his entire squad while preparing for the upcoming fixture. However, Raphinha remains unavailable for full team training with only two days remaining before the match, raising doubts about his involvement from the start.

The forward has reportedly spent the early part of the week undergoing intensive physiotherapy at Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva training centre. The treatment is aimed at reducing the swelling and helping him regain full fitness as quickly as possible.

Raphinha was initially expected to return to group training on Thursday, but his recovery has not progressed sufficiently to guarantee his participation in the regular sessions before Saturday’s game.

Barcelona are therefore reluctant to take unnecessary risks with their captain, particularly with a demanding run of fixtures approaching. Flick and his medical staff are understood to be prioritising the winger’s complete recovery rather than risking an aggravation that could force him to spend a longer period on the sidelines.

Starting Raphinha on the bench would allow Barcelona to assess his condition during the match and introduce him if his involvement becomes necessary. The approach would also provide additional recovery time without completely ruling him out of the contest against Getafe.

Meanwhile, Raphinha’s possible absence from the starting lineup could create an opportunity for Gabriel Jesus to make his first start for Barcelona. The Brazilian forward has been waiting for an opportunity to establish himself at the club and could receive a significant role if Flick decides to adjust his attacking options.

With medical tests reportedly ruling out a serious injury, Barcelona will hope that a cautious approach helps Raphinha return to peak condition. His availability could prove important as the Catalan club prepares for a busy schedule, making his long-term fitness a greater priority than taking immediate risks against Getafe.

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