Getafe face a Barcelona side this Saturday that could be without their top scorer, Raphinha. The Brazilian winger is struggling with edema in his right thigh and has trained separately from the group for two consecutive days, according to the Catalan club's medical report, which has opted for caution to avoid risks in a congested fixture schedule.

Raphinha's potential absence, having scored 12 league goals and 14 in eight matches across all competitions this season, presents a tactical headache for coach Hansi Flick. The German has three main alternatives to fill the gap in attack against a Getafe side sitting 11th with 8 points after seven games. Barcelona's priority is not to rush the player, whose medical tests ruled out a muscle lesion but confirmed inflammation.

Flick's options

Gabriel Jesus appears as the most direct replacement. The Brazilian forward, who was not called up by his national team during the recent break and arrives fresh, has scored two goals in the 41 minutes he has played across four appearances for Barça. His ability to play out wide or through the middle makes him a versatile option.

Anthony Gordon, in form after scoring in his last four matches for England, is another possibility. The winger, who has mainly operated on the left since his arrival, could take on a more central role against Getafe's defensive block. His current condition is optimal.

The third path is Dani Olmo. The attacking midfielder, who is yet to score this season, offers a false nine option and has provided three assists in his eight Barça appearances, adding another three with Spain in the Nations League. His vision could be key to unpicking the defence.

The Getafe context

For Getafe, this match is a huge challenge against the league leaders, who are 13 points ahead of them. José Bordalás's team arrives after a 1-0 win over Málaga on September 20, with a goal from Iván Azón in the 85th minute. However, their recent form (WLDDL) shows some inconsistency they will need to address to try and take something from the Camp Nou.

Defensive solidity, having conceded only 7 goals, will be key to contain a rival seeking luxury replacements for their attack. Getafe's coaching staff will analyse Barcelona's possible variations ahead of Friday's press conference, where Flick may clarify his plans. The Getafe squad, with players like scorer Azón or assister Martín Satriano, trusts in their work to make life difficult for the leaders. All team information is available in our squad section.

The match, corresponding to LaLiga matchday 8, will be played on Saturday at the Spotify Camp Nou. For Getafe, a point against the champions would be an excellent result to continue climbing the standings.

More detail at beinsports.com