Rashford’s Impact Highlighted Ahead of Chelsea Clash

Marcus Rashford, following a commendable performance with the England national team during the November international break, missed Barcelona’s impressive 4-0 victory over Athletic Club at Camp Nou due to illness. Fortunately, he has now fully recovered from the flu and has been included in Barcelona’s squad traveling to London for their match against Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea.

Since his loan move to Barcelona in the summer, Rashford has emerged as a significant threat to opposing teams, having netted six goals and provided nine assists across La Liga and the Champions League. Notably, he has excelled in the Champions League, recording four goals and two assists in just four appearances. His contribution will be vital against Chelsea, especially given his history of success against the London club, where he has scored six goals and provided five assists.

Unfortunately, Pedri, who is highly regarded by both Barcelona supporters and rival managers, will also be absent for this match. The young midfielder suffered a tear in the distal femoral biceps of his left leg in late October, with the Clasico being his last appearance. Pedri is an integral part of the team under manager Hansi Flick, rarely missing matches, but this injury marks a setback for him, reminiscent of a similar hamstring injury he sustained in September 2021, which sidelined him for three months. Reports indicate he is recovering well and has entered the final stages of rehabilitation, as per Mundo Deportivo.

Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, has expressed admiration for Pedri, labeling him one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Before the match against Barcelona, Maresca commented on the significance of Pedri’s absence, stating, “It’s not only a loss for Barcelona, it’s a loss for football because he has incredible quality. Flick’s Barcelona looks spectacular to me. Whenever I watch them, you can always learn something. Last year, they won La Liga and reached the Champions League semifinals. They do many things well, and they are a team that always wants to take the initiative. We will try to do the same.”

Club captain Frenkie de Jong, who has been a key player for Flick, served his suspension during the match against Athletic Club and is poised to return for the Chelsea encounter. Additionally, full-back Alejandro Balde, who suffered a head injury last week but has since recovered, has also traveled with the squad to London.