Marcus Rashford Returns to Barcelona for Champions League Clash Against Chelsea

Marcus Rashford has made a swift recovery from flu and is poised to return to Barcelona’s lineup this week for their Champions League fixture against Chelsea in London.

The 28-year-old forward missed Barcelona’s recent 4-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Spotify Camp Nou due to illness, which prevented him from training in the days leading up to the match. However, he resumed training with his teammates on Sunday and Monday and is expected to be part of Hansi Flick’s squad for the match at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

“I am very happy to have him back. He has recovered from a cold and is fit. We will decide tomorrow whether he starts or comes in from the bench,” Hansi Flick stated during a news conference on Monday.

Flick continued, “I am glad to have him playing for Barcelona. I have followed his career closely. His quality, especially in the box and in front of goal, has always impressed me. He has demonstrated this in Barcelona as well.”

The coach also noted the positive impact of Rashford’s transition to living in Barcelona, highlighting the cultural change and the city’s pleasant climate. “You can see he is smiling a lot now. If he enjoys the atmosphere we provide, it should be beneficial for him,” Flick added.

On loan from Manchester United, Rashford has shone in European competitions this season, netting four goals—including two against Newcastle United—and recording one assist in four appearances. Overall, he has scored six goals and provided eight assists across 16 matches in all competitions for the Spanish champions.

His return presents a selection dilemma for Flick as he regains several key players from injury. Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal formed the attacking trio against Athletic Club, while Raphinha made a substitute appearance following a two-month absence due to injury.

With Rashford back, Flick now has five forwards vying for three positions, although Raphinha has also been utilized as an attacking midfielder at times. Goalkeeper Joan García also made a return over the weekend after a two-month injury layoff, contributing to Barcelona’s first clean sheet since September. However, Pedri, Gavi, and Marc André ter Stegen remain sidelined, with Pedri potentially returning for the weekend’s match against Alavés but Gavi and Ter Stegen not expected back soon.

Tuesday’s match in London presents 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 share seven points from four matches, placing them 11th in the standings. A victory would bring Barcelona closer to their objective of securing a top-eight finish.

In related news, Barcelona is nearing an agreement on a new long-term contract for defender Eric García, whose current deal expires next summer. Positive discussions have taken place in recent weeks, and an agreement is expected soon.

García, a former Manchester City player, has become an integral part of the squad under Flick this season, showcasing his versatility as a central defender, right-back, and even in a holding midfield role. Renewing García’s contract will follow the club’s trend of strategic renewals for key players, alongside those of Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. The next focus for sporting director Deco will be on contracts for Robert Lewandowski and Andreas Christensen, as García’s renewal will ensure he remains one of the few permanent members of the current squad with terms expiring in 2026.