Rashford and Raphinha Ruled Out of Barcelona’s Copa del Rey Clash

Barcelona will be without both Marcus Rashford and Raphinha for Thursday’s Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, dealing a significant blow to the reigning champions.

Raphinha remains sidelined with a thigh strain, while Rashford failed to train on Wednesday due to a knee problem sustained during Saturday’s 3-0 La Liga win over Real Mallorca.

“Marcus is not able to play. He got a hit, and it’s painful. We have to take care of this,” manager Hansi Flick told reporters on the eve of the match.

“This is not good news, but in the end I believe in my team. When the situation is not easy, we grow  and that is also necessary for tomorrow.”

Flick said the club is taking a cautious approach with Raphinha’s recovery. “He’s a player who always gives everything, always at high intensity. When he feels something, we have to take care and maybe take one step back. I’m not happy with the situation because we need him.”

With both first-choice left wingers unavailable, Flick may turn to Ferran Torres or Dani Olmo to fill the role out of position at the Metropolitano. Barcelona are also managing longer-term absences including Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen.

Meanwhile, defender Ronald Araujo revealed in an interview this week that he has been dealing with anxiety and depression over the past 18 months. The Uruguayan took a month-long mental health break late last year.

Flick praised Araujo’s strength in speaking openly, adding that player welfare remains a priority. “He is very strong. To be open about this means you have to be strong at this moment. It is about us who are responsible for the players we have to take care of them.”