Barcelona fans are staring at a long injury list and wondering how the team will cope in LaLiga. In the last month Raphinha, Joàn, García and Gavi have all missed training, and the club has barely given any clear dates for their return. Below we break down what each player is dealing with, when they might be back, and how the coach can adjust the line‑up.
Raphinha – The Brazilian winger pulled a hamstring during a training drill. The medical team says it’s a Grade‑2 strain, meaning he will likely miss three to four weeks. That rules him out of the next two league matches and the upcoming Champions League tie.
Joàn – The versatile midfielder twisted his ankle on the pitch last Saturday. The scan showed a mild ligament sprain. Expect about ten days of rest before he can train with the squad again. He could be back for the next home game if recovery goes well.
García – The young defender suffered a thigh muscle pull after a hard tackle. The club’s physiotherapist gave him a two‑week rehab plan. He should be ready for the next round of fixtures, but the coach may limit his minutes at first.
Gavi – The midfield engine bruised his ribs in a collision during a set piece. Because rib injuries are painful when breathing, the team is giving him at least three weeks to recover. He may miss the crucial derby against Real Madrid.
All four players are undergoing daily physiotherapy, low‑impact cardio and targeted strength work. The club is also using cryotherapy and light therapy to speed up healing.
Without Raphinha’s pace, Barcelona lose a natural outlet on the right wing. The coach can shift the ball to the left side and rely more on Lewandowski’s hold‑up play. In recent games the team has used a double‑pivot midfield, which gives Joàn an opportunity to step in as a box‑to‑box presence.
García’s absence forces the back line to depend on the experienced centre‑backs. The younger full‑backs will have to stay disciplined, especially when facing quick crosses. If García returns early, the coach should rotate him with the current starter to keep both fresh.
Gavi’s bruised ribs are the biggest blow because he drives the team’s pressing and link‑up play. A temporary replacement like Pedri can fill the creative gap, but the intensity may drop. To compensate, Barcelona can press higher with the forwards and use quick transitions to catch opponents off guard.
Overall, the injury list means Barcelona need depth and flexibility. The squad has several promising youngsters who can step up, and the coach’s tactical tweaks will decide whether the team stays in the title race. Fans should keep an eye on official updates for each player’s return date, and expect a few lineup changes in the next matches.
Barcelona faces a major injury crisis as Raphinha, Joan García, Gavi and Fermín López miss weeks, jeopardising key LaLiga and Champions League fixtures.
Julian Parsons | Sep, 30 2025 Read More