Barcelona's preparations for the upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid are facing significant setbacks due to injuries and player availability issues. Raphinha, who suffered a thigh injury in September, was expected to return after partial training but has suffered a further setback, extending his absence by at least another month. This means he will miss not only the Clasico but also two Champions League matches. The club is also dealing with injuries to other key players such as Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, and Gavi, leaving the team short-staffed for the crucial fixture. The injury problems are compounded by the suspension of coach Hansi Flick, who is unable to attend the game in person. The absence of Raphinha and other offensive stars puts additional pressure on Barcelona, which currently sits seven points behind Real Madrid in La Liga standings. A defeat could see Madrid extend their lead to five points, intensifying the pressure on Barcelona. Meanwhile, Real Madrid's squad is also potentially affected by injuries, with uncertainty surrounding the availability of key players like Frenkie de Jong. The match is highly significant for the league table, and both teams are facing challenges that could influence the outcome. The injury setbacks highlight the importance of squad depth and resilience as both giants aim to secure a vital victory in this historic rivalry.