FC Barcelona recovers Raphinha and De Jong ahead of Betis match

FC Barcelona prepares to face Real Betis in La Liga matchday 9, with significant squad updates. Manager Hansi Flick has confirmed the return of Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong to the squad following recent injuries. Raphinha, who had been recovering from a thigh injury sustained during international duty, has returned to collective training. Flick has indicated a cautious approach to Raphinha’s reintegration to avoid further setbacks, suggesting he may be used as a substitute rather than a starter.

Frenkie de Jong also returns to the group after recovering from a knee injury. While both players are available, Flick intends to manage their minutes carefully due to a demanding upcoming schedule that includes a Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain and El Clasico against Real Madrid.

Barcelona currently leads the league with 24 points from eight matches, while Real Betis sits in third place with 19 points. The match is scheduled to take place at the Estadio de la Cartuja in Seville.