Great news for FC Barcelona! Hansi Flick confirms two major returns for the match against Atlético de Madrid

Hansi Flick appeared at the press conference ahead of the match between his club, FC Barcelona, and Atlético de Madrid. This match is valid for the second leg of the 'semis' of the Copa del Rey 2024-25, which will determine which team will join Real Madrid or Real Sociedad in the final of the tournament. This encounter will close a series that, in the first leg, left an exciting 4-4 at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Among the various topics addressed by the German coach, he highlighted the confirmation of two good news: the full recovery of Raphinha and Pau Cubarsí, who could be starters in this crucial match against the 'colchoneros'. Regarding the physical condition of 'Rapha', who was reported to have not played against Girona (4-1) due to some discomfort, Hansi Flick cleared up any doubts when asked about his availability to face the team of 'Cholo' Simeone, responding with a decisive: "Absolutely. Yes, he is ready for tomorrow".

As for Pau Cubarsí, who suffered a strain of the anterior tibioperoneal ligament of his right ankle during the first match of the last FIFA date with Spain against the Netherlands (2-2), which prevented him from playing against CA Osasuna (3-0) and Girona (4-1), the Heidelberg native assured that the young defender is ready for the match against Atlético de Madrid. "The same as Raphinha. We gave him more time to recover well, I think it was a good decision. He will be able to play tomorrow. He is ready," the coach stated.

The return of Ter Stegen to action

Speaking of injured players, Hansi Flick also referred to the recovery of Marc-André ter Stegen and his impact on the team. However, he preferred to be cautious about his return. "We will see: step by step. When he is better, we will evaluate the situation. Now is not the time to make a decision or make statements about it. We need to focus on the present, but the positive thing is that Marc's recovery is favorable and we are happy with his progress," he concluded.