Barcelona and Flick agree to rest Raphinha for Galatasaray trip

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has left Raphinha out of the squad for Tuesday's Champions League match against Galatasaray in Istanbul, a precautionary decision agreed with the player to prevent a fresh injury setback. The Brazilian winger also missed Saturday's match against Getafe under the same agreement. Flick is avoiding a repeat of last season, when Raphinha was rushed back from injury, suffered two additional problems, and spent a long period sidelined. A source told Marca: "This time, we want to avoid any surprises." The decision was unanimous, though Raphinha might have played in a Clasico. Barcelona will also stay overnight in Istanbul and train there before flying back Wednesday, ahead of Saturday's La Liga trip to Real Betis. The squad otherwise features no surprises, including goalkeepers Joan Garcia, Livakovic, and Szczesny.