Marcus Rashford Returns to Strengthen Barcelona Ahead of Chelsea Clash

Marcus Rashford has successfully recovered from a bout of flu and is set to return to England this week for Barcelona’s Champions League fixture against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

At 28 years old, Rashford missed Barcelona’s recent 4-0 victory over Athletic Club at Spotify Camp Nou due to his inability to train in the lead-up to the match. However, he resumed training with his teammates on Sunday and Monday, confirming his place in Hansi Flick’s squad for the upcoming match.

“I am very pleased to have him back. He has just returned from a cold, but he’s doing well. We will decide tomorrow whether he will start or come off the bench,” Hansi Flick stated during a Monday news conference.

Flick expressed his admiration for Rashford, highlighting his quality on the field: “I have been following his career closely. The way he operates in the box, particularly in front of goal, is impressive, and he has demonstrated that here in Barcelona.”

The coach also noted the positive impact of Rashford’s new environment: “Adjusting to a different culture in Barcelona, with its fantastic weather and welcoming people, has clearly uplifted him. I can see that he is smiling more often, which is beneficial for him.”

This season, the on-loan Manchester United forward has shone in Europe, scoring four goals, including two against Newcastle United, and providing one assist in just four appearances. Overall, he has netted six times and assisted eight goals in 16 appearances for the Spanish champions.

Rashford’s return presents a selection challenge for Flick as he regains key players from injury. Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal recently formed the front three against Athletic Club, with Raphinha making his comeback as a substitute after a two-month layoff.

With Rashford now available, Flick has five forwards competing for three positions, although Raphinha has also been utilized as an attacking midfielder on occasion.

In addition, goalkeeper Joan García returned over the weekend following a two-month absence, helping Barcelona secure their first clean sheet since September. However, midfielders Pedri and Gavi, along with goalkeeper Marc André ter Stegen, remain sidelined. Pedri is expected to return for this weekend’s match against Alavés, while Gavi and Ter Stegen are not anticipated to be back soon.

Barcelona’s trip to London presents an opportunity to recover from a disappointing 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in their last Champions League outing. Both Barcelona and Chelsea currently have seven points from four games, occupying 11th place in the standings. A victory would bring Barcelona closer to achieving their aim of finishing in the top eight.

In other news, Barcelona is reportedly close to finalizing a long-term contract with defender Eric García, whose current deal expires next summer. Positive discussions have taken place recently, and an agreement is expected soon.

García, a former Manchester City player, has become a vital asset under Hansi Flick, excelling in various defensive roles. His potential renewal will add to the strategic contracts already secured for players like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. The focus of Sporting Director Deco will now shift to Robert Lewandowski and Andreas Christensen, ensuring they remain integral to the squad.