Rashford’s Impact and Pedri’s Absence in Upcoming Clash Against Chelsea

omidbasir- Marcus Rashford, following a commendable performance with the England national team during the November international break, missed Barcelona’s impressive 4-0 victory over Athletic Club at Camp Nou due to illness. Fortunately, he has now fully recovered from the flu and will be part of the squad heading to London to face Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca.

Since his loan move to Barcelona in the summer, Rashford has proven to be a significant asset for the team, netting six goals and providing nine assists in both La Liga and the Champions League. In particular, his Champions League performances have been exceptional, contributing four goals and two assists in just four appearances. His involvement against Chelsea will be crucial, as he has previously scored six times against the London club, along with five assists, statistics that will certainly keep Maresca’s players on high alert.

Meanwhile, Pedri, who is highly regarded by both Barcelona supporters and rival managers, will also miss this match due to injury. He suffered a tear in the distal femoral biceps of his left leg in late October, with the recent Clasico being his last appearance. As a key player under manager Julian Nagelsmann, Pedri’s absence will be felt, as he has consistently been available for selection. This injury, affecting the hamstring group at the back of his thigh, is not the first of its kind for him; he previously endured a similar hamstring injury in September 2021 that sidelined him for three months. However, reports from Mundo Deportivo indicate that he is making good progress and is in the final stages of his recovery.

Enzo Maresca, the Chelsea manager, has expressed admiration for Pedri, acknowledging him as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Prior to the match against Barcelona, he highlighted the impact of Pedri’s absence, stating, “It’s not only a loss for Barcelona, it’s a loss for football because he has incredible quality.” Maresca also praised Julian Nagelsmann’s Barcelona, noting, “They do many things well and are a team that always wants to take the initiative. We will try to do the same.”

Barcelona’s club captain, Frenkie de Jong, who has been a key figure for Nagelsmann, returns from suspension after missing the match against Athletic Club, while full-back Alejandro Balde, who sustained a head injury during the previous game, has traveled with the team to London.