FC Barcelona continues to show its spectacular form even when not playing. During the international break, up to 16 culés were drafted with their respective national teams, of which Casadó and Íñigo were left out due to their injuries.
After each of them played the first of the two matches they will play this week, they have shown that their level remains outstanding.
Cubarsí's Injury Overshadows Frenkie de Jong's Great Match
Spain drew against the Netherlands (2-2) with a Barcelona MVP who, surprisingly, was not Spanish. Frenkie de Jong (substituted in the 74th minute) commanded the midfield, taking possession at times from the European champions. Another example of the great form the Dutchman is in.
As for the National Team, the bad news was Cubarsí's injury, who was substituted due to problems with his right ankle. Although he left the camp, his presence for the league match against Osasuna is not ruled out.
Lamine and Pedri were starters. Although they did not show the best version we are used to, they were key in the first goal. A recovery by Lamine that ended with a assist from Pedri to Nico Williams.
Both played until the 66th minute, when Dani Olmo came on, who practically did not have much time to make an impact. Meanwhile, Ferran Torres was not drafted due to discomfort.
Raphinha, Brazil's Leader
It is no coincidence that the best player at the moment is also decisive with his national team. Raphinha led the 'canarinha' in the 2-1 victory against Colombia.
The Barcelona captain was key with a penalty goal and an assist. He was one of the most outstanding, playing as a '10', threading passes behind the defense for Vinicius and Rodrygo to run onto.
The Brazilian winger showed the leadership he also has in his national team. The clear example is that he is the first penalty taker ahead of Real Madrid's stars.
Koundé and a Lackluster France
The French full-back played the entire match in the 2-0 defeat against Croatia. A match where France did not show the level of quality of its footballers.
The poor collective performance also affected Koundé. Very weak at the back and lacking precision up front. A France that, if they come back on Sunday, would face the Netherlands or Spain in another clash between Barcelona players.
Lewandowski, Goal, Victory, and... Injury?
The Polish forward continues to make history with his country. Last night he scored his 31st goal in European qualifiers. A goal that also earned him a victory over Lithuania (1-0).
The Barça striker had several opportunities during the match, but it was not until the 81st minute that he was given space on the edge of the area and scored with a right-footed shot that deflected off an opponent.
The scare came during the goal celebration, where he ended up holding the back of his right thigh. A few minutes later, he was substituted, and after the match, he commented that it was a discomfort he had been carrying for several matches, but he hopes it is nothing serious.
Araujo Continues to Gain Rhythm
Uruguay was defeated by Argentina (1-0) in a match without great chances in which Araujo showed great security. The most notable thing is that he did not suffer any injury and could even be ready for the match against Osasuna.
His coach Marcelo Bielsa commented in the post-match press conference that many players who played could rest. A match they will play in Bolivia, under extreme conditions.
Playing Time for Fermín, Gerard Martín, and Pablo Torre
The Spanish U21 team drew against the Czech Republic 2-2 in a match where Fermín and Gerard Martín were starters.
Both were substituted in the 80th minute to allow two other Barça players, Pablo Torre and Álex Valle (on loan at Como), to come on. Without much brilliance, typical of a friendly match, it served them to get the minutes they are not getting with Flick.
The good news for Barça is that all three have left the camp to arrive in time for Thursday's match against Osasuna.
Héctor Fort Also Gains Minutes with the U19
The Barcelona full-back was discreet in the draw against Italy (2-2).Andrés Cuenca, from the reserve team, and Quim Junyent, from the youth team, also played.
Like the U21, Fort plays on Tuesday, although he will not return early for the league match. The difference with the other three U21 players is the importance of these matches. While Santi Denia's team will play another friendly, the U19 team is playing for their presence in the European Championship in June.