FC Barcelona welcome their next test in La Liga as Getafe pays them a visit. A frustrating opponent for Barça whenever they seem to encounter one another, Jorge Bordalas’s team hopes to give Xavi’s side some trouble. Now, at the Montjuic stadium, Barcelona will look to overcome this rather resilient opposition.
However, for this game in particular, some rotations are in order for La Blaugrana. Xavi hinted ahead of the game that he would likely ensure that his team goes through at least some level of rotation ahead of the match, although too many are not in order.
One position which seems likely to see some level of change take place would be the right-wing position. With Lamine Yamal having taken care of that position for quite a lot of starts in a row, it seems only natural to give the young teenager a bit of rest ahead of a grueling calendar.
As per SPORT, it is now an opportunity for the more senior right winger to shine. Raphinha, aged 27, has not exactly enjoyed his most productive season with Barcelona. However, this clash against Getafe could be his chance to readjust his standing within the team.
Since recovering from the injury he sustained in January against Osasuna, Raphinha has not exactly become a regular just yet. The Brazilian winger has only been deployed on three occasions since returning, and all of them have come from the bench.
Now, against Getafe, he could finally get a start while the relentless Lamine Yamal gets some much-needed respite. Against Granada, Celta Vigo, and most recently against Napoli, the most Raphinha has played in any match was a total of 32 minutes.
With speculation suggesting he could be among the stars Barcelona could let go of in the summer, Raphinha has to prove himself. He needs to show Barcelona and whoever the upcoming coach may be that he still adds value to this team and is worth more than just being a financial lever.
