Barcelona have been hit with a double setback after confirming on Friday that winger Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan Garcia will miss key fixtures, including next week’s Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
The club announced that Brazilian international Raphinha faces three weeks on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring problem during Thursday’s 3-1 La Liga victory over Real Oviedo.
Goalkeeper Garcia, meanwhile, has been ruled out for between four to six weeks with a meniscus injury in his left knee.
His absence is expected to see Polish veteran Wojciech Szczesny step in, as first-choice Marc-Andre ter Stegen continues his recovery from back surgery.
While Raphinha is projected to return in time for the October 26 El Clásico against Real Madrid, Garcia’s comeback will depend on how quickly his knee responds to treatment.
There is, however, some positive news for Barcelona. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is set to make his return from a groin issue for Sunday’s La Liga clash against Real Sociedad.
“Hey! I’m back,” the youngster posted on Instagram, celebrating his recovery after sitting out the last four matches.
Barcelona currently sit two points behind rivals Real Madrid in the league and began their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win away at Newcastle.
