Simeone smiles at the news coming from Barça: it is a relief for Atlético de Madrid

This Thursday the first leg will be played against Atlético de Madrid, an appointment marked in red for FC Barcelona. The clash promises intensity, a high tempo, and details that can decide the tie from the first minute. However, beforehand there is a big question that conditions Barça's game plan.

The unknown revolves around Raphinha. The Brazilian is going through one of his best moments of the season and has become a key piece in Barça's attack. His speed, dribbling, and ability to create danger make him a differential footballer in matches of maximum demand.

A recovery that advances with caution

Raphinha was substituted at halftime in the match against Elche after suffering an overload in the adductor of his right leg. Since then, he hasn't played again and was absent both in the Copa match against Albacete and in the league match against Mallorca. The medical staff decided not to take unnecessary risks.

The striker works every day with consistency and prudence at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. His attitude is positive and optimism is present, but the schedule works against him. At this point, his presence against Atlético seems complicated, although it isn't completely ruled out.

Simeone, alert and relieved

On the other bench, Diego Simeone follows the Brazilian's progress with special attention. The Argentine coach knows that Raphinha is one of Barça's most dangerous players, capable of breaking matches with a single action.

The possible absence of the winger represents a relief for Atlético. Simeone breathes easier at the possibility of not having to adjust his system to stop a constant threat on the flank. Without Raphinha, Barça lose depth, imbalance, and a direct way to punish tight defenses.

A scenario that conditions the tie

If Raphinha ultimately doesn't make it to the first leg, Barça will have to look for alternative solutions in attack. Other players will take on a leading role, but it isn't easy to replace the impact that the Brazilian has when he is at one hundred percent.

For Atlético, the news changes the context of the clash. It doesn't guarantee anything, but it reduces one of the biggest defensive risks; Simeone knows it and values it. In such a balanced tie, every detail counts and this time the scales seem to tilt slightly to the red-and-white side even before the ball starts rolling.