Barcelona Coach: Raphinha Won’t Rest

Barcelona coach Hans Flick stated on Friday that Brazilian winger Raphinha is unlikely to rest during Saturday’s La Liga clash against Real Betis.

Flick rested top scorer Robert Lewandowski, who had started 20 consecutive matches, during Barcelona’s 5–1 victory over Mallorca, where Raphinha scored twice. When asked if Raphinha might be given a break, Flick said:

> “We need Rafa. If he’s available, he’ll play. If he’s ready for 90 minutes, he’ll play the full game. The same applies to Lewandowski, who will also play tomorrow.”

Barcelona, leading La Liga with 37 points from 16 matches, ended a three-game winless streak in the league with their triumph over Mallorca.

Flick praised Real Betis, saying:

> “Betis is an excellent team with experienced players. Their style involves pressing high up the pitch, and we must stay alert. Manuel Pellegrini is a seasoned coach whose teams always play great football and maintain possession well. It’s never easy to face them.”