Key Takeaways:
- Gabriel Jesus is ready to start for Barcelona against Getafe, with Raphinha ruled out due to injury concerns
- Frenkie de Jong has returned to training but is targeting a comeback in the next La Liga match versus Betis
- Manager Hansi Flick is managing squad rotation ahead of a challenging sequence of five fixtures
Barcelona Face Fixture Congestion with Injury and Squad Updates
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick presented a comprehensive squad update ahead of the club’s home clash with Getafe, revealing Gabriel Jesus is set to spearhead the attack. With Raphinha sidelined due to his ongoing injury issues, Flick explained the Brazilian would not participate, emphasising a cautious approach to prevent a recurrence of last season’s fitness concerns.
“He doesn’t have a serious injury. He had too many injuries last season, and we have to be careful. He won’t play tomorrow.”
🚨🎙️| Flick: "Jesus? He has developed a lot since arriving here, and he has also adapted to the style of play that I want to implement. And of course, his strength lies in the penalty area and its surroundings, and he is delivering a good performance. He has trained excellently over the past three weeks, and I am very pleased with what I have seen from him. And certainly, he is ready to participate." #fcblibe
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) October 9, 2026
As a result, Gabriel Jesus, who has shown significant improvement recently, is expected to be in the starting line-up. Flick remarked, “The idea is for him to start tomorrow. He’s improved a lot and fits our style. He’s doing very well, he’s ready.”
Frenkie de Jong and Joan Garcia: Selection Decisions for Getafe Clash
Frenkie de Jong resumed training but will not return to competitive action just yet, with Flick highlighting the midfielder’s targeted return in the upcoming fixture against Betis. The Dutch international is not experiencing pain, but additional time is being provided as a precaution.
“Our plan is for him to play in the next match against Betis. He’s not in pain and can do everything, but he needs more time and we’re going to give it to him.”
Flick also acknowledged de Jong’s versatility, stating, “Yes, he can play there. Frenkie is one of the options,” regarding a potential defensive role.
Joan Garcia impressed in recent training sessions and is under consideration for a starting position, while Livakovic and Tek also remain viable options. Flick commented, “Livakovic is always an option, as is Tek. But from what we saw today, Joan is in great shape and I think he’ll be able to start.”
Managing Workload Amidst a Hectic Schedule
With five fixtures scheduled in close succession, Flick noted the necessity of balancing squad rotation and competitive intensity. “It’s part of our job. I can’t change it. We have to be prepared for the upcoming matches,” he explained, underlining that all focus remains on the immediate challenge posed by Getafe, who have secured qualification for the Conference. Flick insisted, “No, we always aim to do our best in the next match. Getafe won’t be an easy game; they’ve qualified for the Conference. It’s never easy to play against them, but our focus is on Getafe.”
Youth Progress and Defensive Options
Raphinha’s ambitions to participate in international matches were also addressed, with Flick acknowledging, “It’s the national team and everyone wants to play for their country. That’s Raphinha’s mindset. We can’t change the fixtures.”
As Raphinha recovers, Flick praised Barcelona’s pressing in training and outlined tactical options, including the use of Marc Bernal at centre-back. “In training today, I saw some very good things in terms of pressing. They pressed very well when they lost the ball; it’s part of our mentality.” Flick added, “He’s played there a few times in training. He’s a very young player and can play in many positions. He’s been doing very well in recent matches; he’s playing at a high level. He could be an option.”
Lamine Yamal and Squad Competition
Flick has been impressed with Lamine Yamal’s form for both Barcelona and Spain but reminded observers of the winger’s youth. “He’s played very well for us in the first few matches and has been impressive for the national team. Lamine is 19 years old – we mustn’t forget that. As far as I’m concerned, the minutes he’s played are fine. Let’s hope he maintains the standard he’s shown in these matches. He loves playing football; when he’s confident, he’s incredible. He’ll be the best in the world.”
Welcoming Xavi Espart’s contract renewal, Flick discussed the benefit of intense competition for places, especially with Joao Cancelo also available. “We have several positions where there are two or three players who can fill that role. That’s what I want to see in training – that anyone can play. It’s brilliant to be able to enjoy Xavi Espart’s company for many years to come,” he concluded.
