Raphinha's absence raises concerns as FC Barcelona face Girona in title showdown

FC Barcelona navigate through a crucial phase, securing pivotal victories against Porto in the Champions League and Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

As they strive to maintain their position near the top of La Liga, another significant challenge looms this Sunday against Girona, the co-leaders in La Liga, at Montjuïc. However, the preparation for this key clash have hit a snag, with Brazilian winger Raphinha notably absent from Thursday's training session at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, a development confirmed by Mundo Deportivo.

The talented winger, who played a crucial role in the win against Atletico with a decisive assist to Joao Félix in his 77-minute performance, was replaced by Lamine Yamal. Raphinha's absence, attributed to a slight physical strain, adds an element of uncertainty to his availability for the Barca-Girona encounter, despite initial reassurances.

While Raphinha's situation raises eyebrows, another player likely to feature prominently against Girona is Andreas Christensen. The Danish centre-back, who has been granted permission to miss Thursday's training session due to impending fatherhood, adds to the intricacies of coach Xavi Hernandez's defensive line-up. Hernandez, already coping with the absence of Inigo Martínez, nursing a hamstring injury from the warm-up before the Atletico match, faces further challenges.

The defensive concerns for Barca extend beyond the backline, with goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen sidelined due to a back issue, and midfielder Gavi recovering from surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his right knee. 

The mounting injury list puts Barcelona's depth to the test as they gear up for a critical fixture against Girona, where every point is crucial in their pursuit of league glory.