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Lamine Yamal and Raphinha show the good and bad of the international break for Barcelona

The first international break of the season always seems to be the most pointless. With players only just getting into a rhythm, the break comes at precisely the wrong time, and if players come back injured, right on top of…

Published: Wednesday, 30 September 2026 at 8:00 PM
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha show the good and bad of the international break for Barcelona
Key Things to Know
  • Jason Pettigrove argues that Raphinha and Lamine Yamal highlighted the negative and positive aspects of the international break.
  • Raphinha suffered muscular discomfort after traveling to Australia with Brazil for international friendly fixtures.
  • Lamine Yamal scored against both England and Croatia, adding another goal and an assist against Croatia.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Barca Blaugranes writer Jason Pettigrove argues that the recent international break demonstrated contrasting fortunes for Barcelona through Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. Pettigrove criticized Brazil's long-distance travel to Australia for friendlies after Raphinha suffered muscular discomfort, highlighting the unnecessary strain placed on club players ahead of crucial Champions League fixtures.

Conversely, Pettigrove praised Lamine Yamal's outstanding form during the break. The 19-year-old scored early goals against England and Croatia, strengthening the argument for his Ballon d'Or candidacy following an impressive year for both club and country.

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