Raphinha rested by Brazil and expected to start for Barcelona against Valencia
Good news for Barcelona fans: Raphinha will not play Brazil’s final World Cup Qualifier against Bolivia and should be available to start against Valencia on September 14.
Ancelotti spares Raphinha in La Paz
The Brazilian winger featured in the Seleção’s first match of the FIFA window, starting and playing 79 minutes before being replaced by Richarlison. Against Bolivia in El Alto at 4,150 meters of altitude coach Carlo Ancelotti has decided to rest him, keeping him on the bench.
This precaution allows Barcelona to count on the 27-year-old for the La Liga clash against Valencia at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.
Barcelona almost at full strength
Aside from Frenkie de Jong, who is still awaiting a medical evaluation, coach Hansi Flick should have his best squad available. In the last league game, Barça drew 1-1 away to Rayo Vallecano with a lineup featuring:
- Defense: Koundé, Eric García, Christensen, Balde
- Midfield: de Jong, Pedri, Dani Olmo
- Attack: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Ferran Torres
Lewandowski, Rashford, and Fermín López also came off the bench.
Champions League debut on the horizon
Barcelona’s schedule will get tougher right after La Liga’s return. On September 18, the Catalans travel to England to face Newcastle in their Champions League opener. Kick-off is set for 4 PM (Brasília time).
