Rashford Returns to Squad as Barca Prepares for Chelsea Clash

omidbasir- Marcus Rashford, following a commendable performance with the England national team during the November international break, missed Barcelona’s emphatic 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 the squad for their upcoming match against Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea in London.

Since his loan transfer in the summer, Rashford has emerged as a formidable player for Barcelona, tallying six goals and nine assists across La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. His recent form in the Champions League has been particularly outstanding, with four goals and two assists in just four appearances. His contributions will be vital in the clash against Chelsea, especially considering his impressive record of six goals and five assists against the Stamford Bridge side.

Meanwhile, Pedri, a player highly regarded by both Barcelona fans and rival managers, will also miss this fixture. He suffered a tear in the distal femoral biceps of his left leg in late October, and his last appearance was during El Clasico. Pedri is a crucial element in Coach Flick’s strategy, having maintained a consistent presence in the squad. This injury is not his first, as he previously faced a hamstring issue in September 2021 that sidelined him for three months. However, reports from Mundo Deportivo indicate that he is recovering well and is in the final stages of his rehabilitation.

Maresca, a Spanish manager who has expressed admiration for Pedri, described him as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Before the upcoming match, he praised both Pedri and Barcelona under Coach Flick’s stewardship, 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.”

In other news, club captain Frenkie de Jong, who has been a key figure for Flick, will return from suspension after missing the match against Athletic Club. Additionally, full-back Alejandro Balde, who suffered a head injury last week and was substituted at halftime, has been cleared to travel with the team to London for the match.