Rashford Returns to Strengthen Barcelona Ahead of Champions League Clash

Marcus Rashford has successfully returned from a bout of flu just in time to rejoin Barcelona for their Champions League clash against Chelsea this week in London.

The 28-year-old forward missed Barcelona’s impressive 4-0 victory over Athletic Club at Spotify Camp Nou on Saturday due to his inability to train prior to the match. However, he resumed training with his teammates on Sunday and Monday, making him available for Hansi Flick’s squad at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

“I am really very happy to have him back. He recently recovered from a cold, but he’s fine now. We will decide tomorrow whether he starts or comes off the bench,” Hansi Flick stated during a press conference on Monday.

“Having him play for Barcelona is fantastic. I have followed his career closely and have always been impressed by his quality, particularly his effectiveness in front of goal, which he has showcased during his time in Barcelona.”

Flick also noted that Rashford’s adaptation to life in Barcelona, including the vibrant culture and pleasant weather, has contributed positively to his overall demeanor. “You can see he is smiling a lot now, and an enjoyable atmosphere will benefit him greatly,” Flick remarked.

This season, Rashford has shone in European competitions for Barcelona, netting four goals and providing one assist in just four appearances. Overall, he has scored six times and assisted eight goals across 16 matches for the Spanish champions.

Rashford’s return presents a selection dilemma for Flick, as the coach welcomes back several key players from injury. Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal were the starting front three against Athletic Club, with Raphinha making a return as a substitute after a prolonged injury absence.

With the addition of Rashford, Flick now has five attackers competing for three positions, although Raphinha has also been deployed as an attacking midfielder at times.

Additionally, goalkeeper Joan García returned to action over the weekend, helping Barcelona secure their first clean sheet since September, although teammates Pedri, Gavi, and Marc André ter Stegen remain sidelined. Pedri may return for the match against Alavés this weekend, but Gavi and Ter Stegen are not expected to be back anytime soon.

Tuesday’s match in London provides Barcelona with 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, placing them 11th in the standings. A victory would bring Barcelona closer to their objective of securing a top-eight position.

Meanwhile, Barcelona is reportedly close to finalizing a new long-term contract with defender Eric García, whose current deal expires next summer. Positive discussions have occurred in recent weeks, and an agreement is expected soon.

García has become an integral part of the team under Hansi Flick this season, excelling in various defensive roles. His renewal will add to Barcelona’s list of strategic contract extensions, following similar agreements with key players like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. Sporting director Deco’s next focus will be on the contracts of Robert Lewandowski and Andreas Christensen.