Barcelona are approaching a demanding stretch of the season after back-to-back defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

Hansi Flick will be eager to see his players respond quickly, particularly with important domestic and European fixtures approaching.

The Clasico defeat has added pressure on a side that had hoped to make a stronger statement against their biggest rivals.

Flick must now manage his squad carefully to avoid allowing a difficult spell to become a longer slump.

Barcelona’s attacking output remains central to their ambitions, with their most influential forwards expected to shoulder much of the responsibility.

Maintaining that firepower will be especially important as the fixture schedule becomes more congested.

Brazil officially call up Barcelona star for Japan and Singapore games

Barcelona have been handed a fresh concern after Raphinha was included in Brazil’s squad for November friendlies against Japan and Singapore, despite his recent injury problems.

Carlo Ancelotti has selected the 29-year-old for Brazil’s final internationals of 2026, with both matches scheduled to take place in Singapore.

Brazil face Japan on 14 November before meeting the hosts three days later.

The call-up will inevitably attract attention in Barcelona after Raphinha recently left Brazil’s camp with swelling in his right thigh.

He was substituted at half-time during the 4-2 friendly win over Australia in September, prompting the Brazilian Football Confederation to release him as a precaution.

That setback followed a difficult run of fitness issues.

In March, Raphinha sustained a right hamstring injury while playing against France, with Barcelona estimating a recovery period of five weeks.

The timing is significant for Flick, who relies on Raphinha’s pressing, work rate and attacking contribution.

The winger has also shown his importance in major matches, scoring against Real Madrid after returning to action.

The two November fixtures require a lengthy journey to Asia, adding travel and recovery demands to an already busy schedule.

Barcelona will hope Raphinha comes through international duty without further problems, particularly with crucial club fixtures awaiting him on his return.

Estes são os convocados para fechar 2026! 🇧🇷

Japão e Singapura, aí vamos nós ✈️

#BateNoPeito https://t.co/jOPiBkEB56

— brasil (@CBF_Futebol) October 29, 2026