Why Lewandowski and Raphinha Are Missing From El Clásico: How Barcelona Plan to Face Real Madrid Without Their Stars
When it comes to Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona, the world stops to watch. But this time, El Clásico looks different — and not just because of the La Liga schedule. Barcelona will take on Real Madrid CF without two of their biggest names: Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha.
What happened to Lewandowski and Raphinha?
Coach Hansi Flick’s Barcelona have been managing a long list of injuries, and two of them couldn’t have come at a worse time.
Raphinha, who picked up a hamstring injury on September 25, had been showing solid progress in training. But according to Jijantes FC’s Gerard Romero, the Brazilian winger felt discomfort again during a recent session, forcing him to step back. Luckily, it’s not a severe tear — just a minor relapse — but it’s enough to keep him out of the Real Madrid vs Barcelona clash.
Lewandowski’s case is more serious. The Polish striker tore his left thigh muscle during Poland’s 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. That injury means he’s out for several weeks, missing one of the most anticipated games of the La Liga season: Barca vs Madrid.
How Barcelona plan to cope without them
Without their top scorer and creative winger, FC Barcelona will rely on young and hungry players. The front line against Real Madrid CF now features Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Marcus Rashford — a trio that’s shown surprising chemistry in recent weeks.
Torres, in particular, has stepped up with strong finishing and relentless energy, while Yamal’s flair continues to excite fans. Midfielder Fermin Lopez has also been key, adding balance and drive from behind.
Even with Lewandowski and Raphinha missing, Flick’s rotation strategy seems to be paying off — giving lesser-used players a real shot at proving themselves on the biggest stage in club football.
Other major absences for Barcelona
It’s not just Lewandowski and Raphinha. The injury list also includes Marc-André ter Stegen, Andreas Christensen, Joan Garcia, Gavi, and Dani Olmo. Each absence cuts into Barcelona’s rhythm and experience ahead of this crucial showdown against Real Madrid.
However, there’s good news: several players are close to returning. Christensen could rejoin by October 27, Raphinha by November 1, and Lewandowski by early November — just in time to restore Barcelona’s attack for the next run of La Liga fixtures.
Lewandowski’s El Clásico record
Lewandowski joined Barcelona in 2023 and has already played in four El Clásico clashes. He’s scored in two of them — including the unforgettable 4-0 win at the Santiago Bernabéu and the 5-2 victory in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup Final. His presence will be missed, not just for his goals but for his leadership on the field.
Where to watch Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona
Fans around the world are eager to catch this Real Madrid x Barcelona showdown. In the U.S., La Liga matches stream live on ESPN+, while viewers in India can tune in via Sports18 or JioCinema. Fans across Europe can watch through LaLigaTV and Viaplay Sports.
What to expect from this El Clásico
The Real Madrid vs Barca matchup has never been just about names — it’s about pride, history, and dominance. With Barcelona’s youth stepping up and Real Madrid in solid form, this Madrid vs Barcelona clash promises high-intensity football and new heroes on both sides.
Even without Lewandowski and Raphinha, one thing’s certain: El Clásico never disappoints.