Marcus Rashford’s Uncertain Participation
Marcus Rashford’s participation in Barcelona’s highly anticipated return to Spotify Camp Nou this weekend is uncertain as he has been sidelined with flu symptoms, missing training sessions on both Thursday and Friday. Head coach Hansi Flick stated that a final decision regarding Rashford’s availability will be made close to match time. He noted,
“Marcus has fever, so he was out [of training] yesterday and today. There are some doubts if he is back tomorrow.”
Rashford’s Impact and Raphinha’s Return
Since joining Barcelona on loan from Manchester United, Rashford has had a significant impact on the team, scoring six goals and assisting eight times, especially filling the void on the left flank left by the injured Raphinha. However, the Brazilian international has returned to training after a lengthy two-month break and is in contention to make an appearance against Athletic Club, though Flick confirmed he would not start.
“The good news is Raphinha is back. I appreciate a lot what he can give the team. We will see tomorrow if he can play 10, 15 or 20 minutes, but he’s back and it’s a big step for him to come back and be on the bench tomorrow,”
Flick shared.
Injury Updates and Team News
Additionally, Flick reported that Lamine Yamal is progressing well despite a lingering groin issue; the coach believes it was wise for Yamal to skip both of Spain’s matches during the recent international break as the national team secured a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
Goalkeeper Joan García is ready to return in goal for the clash against Athletic, but Barcelona will be without the services of Frenkie de Jong, who is suspended, and Pedri, who is still recovering but might be available for Tuesday’s Champions League showdown against Chelsea.
Return to Camp Nou
Saturday’s match marks Barcelona’s first return to their home ground since relocating to the Olympic Stadium for renovations in 2023, which are expected to be completed by 2027, including the addition of a third tier and a new roof. However, for this match, attendance will be limited to 45,000 fans. Flick expressed his excitement about returning to Camp Nou, sharing his sentiments from a recent open training session,
“I think we prefer to play in Camp Nou. When we had the open training there two weeks ago, I went up the stairs and saw the pitch, it was an unbelievable feeling, seeing all the fans around. It’s a football stadium and this is what we love, so of course we are all happy to be back in our stadium. It can give us a really big push in the match because it’s very close and the fans know when the team needs this push.”
Speculation on Messi’s Return
Flick also commented on Lionel Messi‘s recent visit to Camp Nou, prompting speculation about a potential return to the club.
“Why not?”
he responded when asked if he would welcome coaching Messi. He continued,
“But at the end, you know Messi is the best footballer of the last 10 years or more. I always appreciate seeing him playing football; it’s unbelievable what he’s doing. Of course, I think for every team, he’s good. But the facts are his contract runs until 2028, mine finishes in 2027, so for me, it’s not a question.”
A victory against Athletic could see Barcelona temporarily take the lead in LaLiga before current leaders Real Madrid face Elche on Sunday.
