SOCCER

Why are Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha not playing today, Oct. 26, for Barcelona vs Real Madrid?

Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha stand as critical components in head coach Hansi Flick's strategy, yet they will be unavailable as their team squares off against Real Madrid in El Clasico.

Why is Hansi Flick not coaching Barcelona today vs Real Madrid in the Spanish Clasico?
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal sends strong message to Real Madrid fans hours before first El Clasico of the season

October 26, 2025 08:29AM EDT

**© Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images**Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's first goal with team mate Raphinha.

The prestigious El Clasico will see Barcelona without key players Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, as head coach Hansi Flick navigates their absence against Real Madrid in this pivotal La Liga clash. Both teams are riding high after midweek Champions League triumphs, setting the stage for what promises to be a captivating encounter in Spain.

Fresh off a commanding 6-1 victory over Olympiacos at home, Barcelona enter this game on a significant morale boost. However, the stakes of facing Real Madrid bring a distinct intensity that eclipses routine seasonal matchups.

Conversely, Real Madrid come into the fray after a narrow yet resolute 1-0 win against Juventus at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite a stern challenge, they emerged victorious, setting the tone for today’s eagerly anticipated El Clasico.

Global fanbases are primed for one of soccer’s most storied rivalries, eagerly awaiting the spectacle that will unfold. With players like Lamine Yamal, representing Los Culers, and Kylian Mbappe set to grace the pitch for Los Blancos, fans worldwide are in for a thrilling Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona.

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Why are Lewandowski and Raphinha not playing for Barcelona today?

Both Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha miss today’s match against Real Madrid due to injury setbacks. Lewandowski suffered a demanding injury during the recent World Cup Qualifiers while representing Poland. Meanwhile, Raphinha continues his rehabilitation from an early-season injury sustained with Barcelona.

Where to watch Real Madrid vs Barcelona live in the USA: La Liga 2025/2026

Confirmed lineup for Barcelona

Barcelona’s squad for El Clasico will be missing not only Lewandowski and Raphinha, but also Andreas Christensen, Joan Garcia, Gavi, and Dani Olmo. On the other hand, Real Madrid will be without injured defenders David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.

Confirmed starting XI for Barcelona:

Goal keeper: Wojciech Szczesny
Defenders: Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde
Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Fermin Lopez
Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Marcus Rashford, and Ferran Torres.

SurveyWill Barcelona win El Clasico vs Real Madrid without Lewandowski and Raphinha?

Will Barcelona win El Clasico vs Real Madrid without Lewandowski and Raphinha?

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Santiago Tovar

Santiago Tovar is a bilingual sports journalist who joined Bolavip US in 2024. With over seven years of experience, he has covered a diverse range of sports, including soccer, NFL, NBA, tennis, and Formula 1. Santiago has provided real-time coverage of major events such as the 2021 Women's Copa America, Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, and the Davis Cup qualifiers. Before joining Bolavip US, he worked at Kienyke.com and Redmas.com.co, where he developed strategies to highlight key sports moments across websites and social media platforms.

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