Raphinha celebrates scoring Barcelona's seventh goal of the game. Credit: Getty Images
Barcelona captain Raphinha has insisted that the 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain will have no impact on Sunday’s El Clásico against Real Madrid.
In a post obtained from football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano on X on Wednesday, asked after the match at the Parc des Princes whether the loss could affect the high-profile La Liga clash, the Brazilian gave a clear response: “No.”
Raphinha downplayed the result, stressing that Barcelona had competed well against the back-to-back European champions on their home ground.
He noted that the team had only dropped three points and that the focus had already shifted to preparing for Real Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou.
The forward also suggested a possible future reunion with PSG in the Champions League.
He said, “There are big chances of meeting PSG on our way again in UCL this season.
“Why not? They are back to back champions and we want to win the UCL, two top teams fighting for the title… there are good possibilities.”
Manager Hansi Flick supported the squad’s readiness by confirming he had deliberately rested midfielder Rodri against PSG.
He said, “Yes. He played a lot of minutes with the national team, also,” Flick said. “At the end, Rodri is fresh for Sunday.”
Barcelona now turn their full attention to the Clásico, determined to put the Paris setback behind them.
Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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