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According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Barcelona forward Raphinha has reportedly delivered a message to his teammates following their 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, encouraging them to put the disappointment behind them and concentrate on Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid.
According to journalist Santi Ovalle via Cadena SER, the Brazilian winger sought to raise the squad’s morale after the European setback and ensure the result would not undermine their confidence ahead of the highly anticipated clash.
Raphinha reportedly urged his teammates to remain focused, trust their preparation and direct their attention towards the challenges ahead. With Barcelona set to face their biggest domestic rivals just days after losing to PSG, his intervention could help the squad regain its composure before another important fixture.
The forward’s actions also underline his growing leadership role within Hansi Flick’s dressing room. Having returned to the starting lineup against PSG, Raphinha reportedly took the initiative to encourage his teammates and promote a positive response to the disappointing result.
Barcelona have limited time to recover before Sunday’s encounter, making the meeting with Real Madrid an important opportunity to restore confidence and regain momentum. A strong performance could help the Catalan side put their European disappointment behind them while giving their supporters renewed optimism.
There are also concerns within the Barcelona camp about the circumstances surrounding the defeat to PSG. The absence of defenders Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde affected Flick’s available options, raising questions about whether a stronger defensive lineup might have changed the course of the match.
Raphinha’s reported message comes at a crucial point in Barcelona’s campaign. After missing part of the season because of fitness problems, the Brazilian is gradually working his way back into an important role within the team.
His influence could be valuable against Real Madrid, where composure, experience and leadership may prove just as important as individual quality. Barcelona will need their senior players to help the team manage the pressure and maintain concentration throughout the contest.
Raphinha is expected to be among the players considered for the El Clasico at the Spotify Camp Nou, although Flick will determine his starting lineup based on the squad’s fitness and availability.
Barcelona must now turn their attention towards the challenge ahead and demonstrate their ability to recover from a setback. A positive result against Real Madrid would provide a timely boost and offer the Catalan side an opportunity to respond to their Champions League disappointment.