Barcelona captain Raphinha has insisted that his side’s 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain will not affect their preparations for El Clasico, backing the team’s performance despite losing their first match of the 2026/27 season.
Returning to the starting lineup against the reigning European champions, the Brazilian forward acknowledged the difficulty of playing PSG on their home ground but argued that Barcelona had demonstrated their ability to compete.
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With Real Madrid next on the schedule, Raphinha also provided an update on his own fitness and addressed the uncertainty surrounding Dani Olmo’s condition.
Raphinha defends Barcelona performance
Raphinha recognised the challenge Barcelona faced against Luis Enrique’s side, highlighting the quality of their opponents and the difficulty of playing in front of their supporters.
“We knew it could happen; we’re facing the two-time European champions, and playing in front of their fans is very tough.”
Although disappointed not to take anything from the contest, the Barcelona captain played down the significance of losing three points, stressing that the team must learn from the experience rather than dwell on the result.
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“We wanted to come away with a win or a point – whatever – but it’s no big deal; these things happen when they’re meant to, and in the end we’ve only dropped three points.”
Raphinha also praised the tactical quality of PSG, believing Barcelona’s ability to compete in possession provided encouragement despite the scoreline.
Raphinha returned to the starting XI against PSG. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
“They are a very well-drilled side. Despite today’s result, we competed well. Both teams like to play with the ball and we had possession.
“It was a good test and shows we can compete. The result doesn’t matter, but we played well.”
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Barcelona captain explains fitness plan after return
The PSG fixture marked Raphinha’s return to the starting XI, but his involvement was carefully managed following a limited period of training.
“After all, I’ve had less than a week’s training, and this was the plan – to play fewer minutes.”
The forward was nevertheless encouraged by how he felt after the match, suggesting that his physical condition is moving in the right direction as Barcelona approach a crucial domestic fixture.
“I finished the match feeling good and strong, and I’m trying to improve my physical condition further.”
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His return is an important development for Hansi Flick, although the planned restriction on his minutes indicates that Barcelona are continuing to manage his workload.
Raphinha is confident ahead of El Clasico. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Raphinha also admitted that he did not yet know the details of Dani Olmo’s injury after the midfielder was forced off against PSG.
“I don’t know what happened to Dani, and now we’ll speak to the manager and the doctor to find out what happened.”
Raphinha insists PSG loss will not affect El Clasico
Barcelona will now turn their attention to Sunday’s meeting with Real Madrid, with Raphinha eager to ensure that the European setback does not carry over into El Clasico.
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The captain said the team would listen to Flick’s assessment and work on the areas requiring improvement before the next match.
“We’ll see what the manager has to say about how we can improve and be in good shape for the Clasico.”
Asked directly whether the defeat could influence Barcelona’s preparations or mentality ahead of facing their biggest rivals, Raphinha simply said,
“It can’t affect it at all,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
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