Barcelona captain Raphinha returns for LaLiga trip to Real Betis

Barcelona resume their LaLiga title defence away to Real Betis on October 17th with captain Raphinha set to return after missing two weeks with a muscle injury sustained while on international duty with Brazil.

Hansi Flick’s side have made a perfect start to the league season, winning all eight of their matches. They have also won both of their UEFA Champions League games, making the defending champions the team to beat in Spain.

Real Betis provide a significant test, having won six of their eight league fixtures. Manuel Pellegrini’s side have also recorded successive 3-2 victories in the Champions League.

Raphinha’s availability is the main positive for Flick. The Barcelona captain has been absent since suffering his injury with Brazil, but is now back in contention as his team return to domestic action.

Frenkie de Jong has resumed training but is not yet fit enough to start. Andreas Christensen remains unavailable and is not expected back until November.

Barcelona’s confirmed starting XI is: J. Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, E. Garcia, Martin; Rodri, Pedri, Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Jesus, Gordon.

Real Betis will begin with: Valles; Bellerin, Llorente, Natan, Garcia; Fornals, Roca, Isco; Ezzalzouli, Parrott, Riquelme.

The match at the Estadio de La Cartuja will kick off at 6:30pm local time, which is 5:30pm in the UK.

Barcelona completed a league double over Real Betis last season, winning both home and away fixtures. They are also unbeaten in their past nine meetings with Pellegrini’s side in all competitions.