Marcus Rashford has recovered from the flu just in time to join the English squad for Barcelona’s upcoming Champions League match against Chelsea in London this week.
The 28-year-old missed Barça’s return to the Spotify Camp Nou (a 4-0 victory over Athletic Club in La Liga) on Saturday due to his inability to train in the days leading up to the game.
However, he is set to resume training with his teammates on Sunday and Monday and will be included in Hansi Flick’s lineup for the game at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
During a press conference on Monday, manager Hansi Flick expressed his satisfaction with Rashford’s recovery: “I’m really, really happy. He’s back from his cold and doing well. I’ll decide tomorrow whether he will start or come off the bench.”
“I’m thrilled he’s playing for Barcelona. I’ve followed him throughout his career, and I’m impressed by his skill set, particularly in the box and in front of goal. He has demonstrated his talent here at Barcelona.”
“The change in environment, adapting to the culture in Barcelona, enjoying the pleasant weather and social atmosphere—it’s all beneficial for him. He seems genuinely happy now. If he feels the same good vibes we do, that’s perfect for him.”
This season, the on-loan Manchester United forward has excelled in Europe, netting four goals, including two against Newcastle United, and providing one assist in four appearances.
Overall, he has scored six goals and made eight assists in 16 matches across all competitions for the Spanish titleholders.
His return creates a selection dilemma for Flick as the coach gains several key players back from injury.
In the match against Athletic, Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal formed part of the attacking trio, while Rafinha made a comeback as a substitute after two months on the sidelines.
With Rashford back, Flick now has five players competing for three positions, although Raphinha was also utilized as an attacking midfielder.
Goalkeeper Joao García also made his return for the first time in two months during the weekend, contributing to Barça’s first clean sheet since September, while Pedri, Gabi, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen remain unavailable.
Pedri may be back for the weekend match against Alaves at Camp Nou, but Gabi and Ter Stegen are not expected to return immediately.
Tuesday’s London trip offers Barça a chance to recover from a disappointing 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in their last Champions League outing.
Like Chelsea, they currently sit 11th in the standings with seven points from four games, and a victory this week would help them move closer to breaking into the top eight.
Barcelona Approaching New Contract with Eric Garcia
In other news, various sources have informed ESPN that Barcelona is nearing agreement on a new long-term contract with Eric Garcia.
Garcia’s present deal is set to expire next summer, but positive discussions have taken place recently, suggesting an agreement is imminent.
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The former Manchester City defender has become an integral player under manager Hansi Flick this season, showcasing versatility as a central defender, right-back, and even as a holding midfielder.
If Garcia’s renewal is finalized, he will be one of the only permanent players in the current squad with a contract extending until 2026.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer fans as it highlights Rashford’s return, which could enhance Barcelona’s performance in crucial matches, and the potential contract extension for Garcia signifies the club’s commitment to building a strong team for the future. Such developments can impact a team’s trajectory in both domestic and European competitions.
