Rashford Returns to Boost Barcelona Ahead of Chelsea Clash

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

The 28-year-old forward missed Barcelona’s recent match at Spotify Camp Nou, where they secured a 4-0 victory over Athletic Club in LaLiga, due to his inability to train leading up to the game.

However, Rashford resumed training with his teammates on Sunday and Monday and is expected to be included in Hansi Flick’s squad for the match on Tuesday.

“I am very pleased to have him back. He has just returned from a cold and is feeling well. We will decide tomorrow whether he starts or comes off the bench,” Hansi Flick remarked during a press conference on Monday.

“Having him play for Barcelona is fantastic. I have been following his career closely, and I am continually impressed by his quality, particularly in front of goal, as he demonstrated in Barcelona.

“Adapting to a new culture, enjoying the fantastic weather and the people here has made a significant impact on him. You can see he is smiling a lot, and if he enjoys the atmosphere we offer, it will be beneficial for him.”

On loan from Manchester United, Rashford has made a remarkable impact in Europe this season, scoring four goals—including two against Newcastle United—and providing one assist in just four appearances. Overall, he has netted six goals and contributed eight assists in 16 matches across all competitions for the Spanish champions.

His return presents Flick with a selection dilemma as he regains key players from injury. Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal started as the front three against Athletic, while Raphinha returned as a substitute after a two-month injury layoff.

With Rashford back, Flick now has five players vying for three positions, although Raphinha has also been utilized as an attacking midfielder on occasions.

Goalkeeper Joan García marked his return last weekend following a two-month absence, helping Barcelona achieve their first clean sheet since September. However, Pedri, Gavi, and Marc André ter Stegen remain sidelined, with Pedri potentially returning for the weekend match against Alavés, while Gavi and Ter Stegen are not expected back soon.

The upcoming match in London provides Barcelona with an opportunity to recover from a disappointing 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in their previous Champions League outing. Both Barcelona and Chelsea currently have seven points from four games, placing them 11th in the standings. A victory this week would bring Barcelona closer to securing a place in the top eight.

In addition, Barcelona is nearing a long-term contract agreement with Eric García, whose current deal expires next summer. Positive negotiations have occurred recently, and an agreement is imminent.

García, a former Manchester City defender, has emerged as a pivotal player under Hansi Flick this season, excelling in roles as a central defender, right-back, and holding midfielder. His renewal will continue the trend of “strategic” player renewals at the club, alongside players like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. Sporting director Deco’s next focus will be on securing contracts for Robert Lewandowski and Andreas Christensen.

Once García finalizes his renewal, he will be one of the few permanent members of the current squad with contracts extending until 2026.