According to Marca, Raphinha is preparing for another clash with Real Madrid, equipped with several advantages that should allow him to play a significant role.
In Raphinha's last six encounters against Real Madrid, Barcelona have won all of them, with Raphinha scoring seven goals.
Raphinha has proven particularly effective against Real Madrid, especially against goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, with most of his goals coming against the Belgian stopper.
The Brazilian winger's pace, intensity in one-on-one situations, and ability to exploit defensive gaps have consistently troubled Real Madrid's backline. This goes beyond statistics—Raphinha has demonstrated he knows how to perform in an El Clásico and be a decisive player on the biggest stage.
Beyond his excellent record against Real Madrid, Raphinha's current form is also outstanding. The Brazilian star is currently leading La Liga in goals, ahead of Mbappé, making him one of Barcelona's primary attacking threats.
Although Raphinha is still recovering from injury, he is in a phase of confidence, efficiency, and influence—three qualities Barcelona needs for this caliber of match.
Raphinha returned from injury against PSG, but appeared to still be regaining match sharpness.
This comeback requires time, as Raphinha has not yet accumulated enough consecutive playing time to display his most explosive qualities or fully recapture his rhythm of creating quick separation from defenders.
However, this match should serve as the first step toward his complete return to form.