Key Takeaways
- Raphinha and Marc Bernal will return to the Barcelona squad for Saturday’s trip to Osasuna.
- The Catalans can still reach 100 points this season if they win their final five matches.
- Flick expects to sign a new contract until 2028 once the La Liga title is secured.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that captain Raphinha and midfielder Marc Bernal will travel with the team to Pamplona for their La Liga clash against Osasuna this Saturday. The match kicks off at 21:00 CEST at El Sadar, the same ground where Flick suffered his first defeat as Blaugrana boss earlier this campaign.
The German coach admitted his side paid the price for rotating too heavily during that previous visit. “We made many changes to the starting eleven that day. We will not do that tomorrow,” Flick stated. He warned that Osasuna remain dangerous opponents, particularly with striker Ante Budimir in form, and noted the hosts are targeting European qualification next term.
Barcelona could achieve 100 points this season by winning their remaining five fixtures, but Flick refuses to look beyond the immediate challenge. “We focus only on the next match. I am not good with numbers,” he said. “It would be perfect to win every game, but we face difficult opponents. We must play at our best. That is our philosophy.”
The return of Raphinha offers a major boost after the Brazilian missed the whole of April through injury. “Rapha always gives 100%. It is his mentality,” Flick praised. “He is the captain and helps us enormously. He will travel with us and we will see what happens.” Youngster Marc Bernal will definitely feature, though Andreas Christensen’s availability remains uncertain. Flick also singled out Espart for praise, suggesting the youngster could play a bigger role next term.
Regarding Lamine Yamal, who is also recovering from injury, Flick offered positive news. “He is doing well and his progress is good. I think we will see him at the World Cup. He has time to recover properly.”
Flick also expressed his joy at working in Catalonia. “People thank me every day. It is an honour to coach this club,” he said. “We have a fantastic atmosphere. The players give everything for Barcelona.” The former Germany boss expects to extend his stay until 2028 once the league title is mathematically secured.