Good news ahead of Betis v Barça. Speaking at his pre-match press conference before the trip to Seville, Hansi Flick confirmed that both Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong are available for selection and could get some playing time.

Latest on Raphinha and De Jong

Regarding the Brazilian, the coach said: "If you ask him, he'll tell you he's ready to start, but we're taking things step by step. We have a lot of games in a short space of time and we need to manage that."

As for De Jong, who has yet to make his first appearance of the season, Flick explained: "He gives us another option in midfield and we'll see how he progresses. He's training well and is ready to get some minutes. He looks very focused and he's a top player."

01:27
Hansi Flick: 'Raphinha and De Jong can play'

 

Betis and Lamine Yamal

With two more important players back in contention, the league leaders head to La Cartuja to face a formidable Betis side, currently third in La Liga and with two Champions League wins to their name.

"They're full of confidence and have won every home game. They have fantastic players in one-on-one situations. It's incredible how much they've improved in recent years."

But Barça have already shown that they have what it takes to rise to such a demanding challenge. And one of their biggest assets, of course, is the form of Lamine Yamal.

"He's a special player. We have to manage his minutes, but the important thing is that he enjoys playing. That's how things are at the moment and I don't want to interrupt that."

One thing Hansi Flick is certain of is that it would be a mistake to look beyond Betis, even with PSG and El Clásico on the horizon. With that firmly in mind, Barça are aiming for their eleventh win of the season.

もっと読む