Barcelona received a welcome boost ahead of their weekend match against Athletic Bilbao as manager Hansi Flick confirmed that Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are both fit again. The update comes at a symbolic moment for the club, which returns to the Camp Nou on Saturday after more than two years of renovation work.
Yamal, who missed Spain’s recent World Cup qualifiers with a groin injury, trained at full intensity during the international break. Flick said the 18-year-old showed strong progress and earned medical clearance. Raphinha also recovered from a hamstring issue that kept him out since September. However, the coach noted that Marcus Rashford remains doubtful due to a fever.
A long-awaited homecoming for Barcelona
The Catalan side played its home matches at the Olympic Stadium for the past two seasons while the Camp Nou underwent major reconstruction. Flick said returning to their historic ground carries emotional weight for both the team and the fans. He described the moment he stepped onto the pitch during an open training session on November 7 as “unbelievable,” adding that the stadium’s proximity to supporters creates an atmosphere that can lift the squad.
Barcelona enter the weekend three points behind league leaders Real Madrid. They also face a crucial Champions League match against Chelsea on Tuesday, as they sit 11th in the group stage standings. Flick stressed that the team must stay focused and build consistency as the season progresses. He said the players understand the importance of improving each week, especially with a long schedule ahead.
The manager repeated that Barcelona must approach the campaign “game by game,” maintaining confidence in their style and long-term objectives. The return to the Camp Nou, even at reduced capacity, may help the club regain momentum during a demanding stretch of fixtures.
