Barcelona Receive Major Boost as Raphinha Returns to Starting XI Against PSG

According to a report published by Spanish sports newspaper AS on October 19, 2026, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that Raphinha is ready to start against Paris Saint-Germain in their upcoming UEFA Champions League encounter. 

The update provides encouragement for Barcelona ahead of their important European fixture, with the Brazilian forward expected to offer another attacking option as the team prepares to face the reigning European champions.

Raphinha’s availability follows a period on the sidelines after he suffered a muscle injury while representing Brazil during the international break.

The setback forced him to miss Barcelona’s subsequent matches against Getafe and Galatasaray, raising questions about when he would return to the team’s starting lineup.

However, the forward has since resumed training and begun working his way back into competitive action.

Fabrizio Romano reported on October 15, 2026, that Raphinha was ready to return to Barcelona’s squad after completing a full training session. 

The Brazilian subsequently made his return to action against Real Betis, featuring for approximately 20 minutes as Barcelona continued managing his recovery.

Flick’s latest comments indicate that the forward has made sufficient progress to be considered for a starting role against PSG.

The Barcelona manager’s decision will be significant because the team faces a demanding schedule, with major fixtures coming in quick succession.

Barcelona are expected to rely on their attacking quality and ability to create chances as they prepare for the challenge in Paris.

Raphinha’s return could provide additional creativity, movement and goal threat in the final third, particularly in a contest where Barcelona will need to make effective use of their opportunities.

The Brazilian has established himself as an important member of the squad through his attacking contributions, work rate and ability to influence matches.

His presence could also give Flick greater flexibility when selecting the team’s forward line for the European encounter.

Nevertheless, Barcelona must also contend with defensive injury concerns ahead of the match.

Reports published on October 19 indicated that defenders Jules Koundé and Eric García would be unavailable, while Andreas Christensen was also among the players sidelined. 

Those absences could place additional responsibility on Barcelona’s available defenders as they prepare to face PSG’s attacking players.

For Flick, having Raphinha available to start represents positive news at a time when the team needs its key players to be ready for important fixtures.

The Brazilian’s expected involvement will therefore be one of the major talking points ahead of the Champions League clash.

Barcelona supporters will be hoping that his return helps the team deliver a strong performance against the French champions.