Marcus Rashford is uncertain for Barcelona‘s match at Spotify Camp Nou this weekend, having missed training due to flu on Thursday and Friday.
Barça manager Hansi Flick stated he will make a last-minute decision about Rashford’s availability for Saturday’s encounter against Athletic Club, where Rashford has played a pivotal role, featuring in the last 10 games across all competitions.
“Marcus has been experiencing fever, so he missed training yesterday and today,” Flick confirmed during a press conference on Friday. “There are some uncertainties about whether he will be ready for tomorrow.”
Rashford, who has scored six times and provided eight assists since arriving on loan from Manchester United, has been playing on the left flank in the absence of Raphinha.
Fortunately for Barça, the Brazil international has returned to training after two months off, and Flick anticipates he will participate against Athletic, albeit not in the starting lineup.
“The good news is that Raphinha is back,” said the German coach. “I truly value what he brings to the team. We’ll see tomorrow if it’s 10, 15, or 20 minutes, but he is back, and it’s a significant milestone for him to be on the bench tomorrow.”
Flick also mentioned that Lamine Yamal is progressing well, even as he manages a groin issue, emphasizing that skipping both Spain matches over the international break was a “good decision” after La Roja secured their spot in next summer’s World Cup.
Additionally, goalkeeper Joan García will be fit to take the field against Athletic, but Frenkie de Jong is suspended for the match. Meanwhile, Pedri is also expected to miss out, but he might return for the upcoming clash against Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Saturday’s match against Athletic marks Barça’s return to Camp Nou since they played at the Olympic Stadium during renovations in 2023.
The renovations are still ongoing, with completion expected in 2027, which includes adding a third tier and a roof. Saturday’s game will have a limited capacity of 45,000 spectators, but Flick is thrilled to be back.
“We definitely prefer playing at Camp Nou,” he remarked. “When we had an open training session there two weeks ago, the feeling of seeing the pitch and the fans was absolutely incredible.”
“It’s a football stadium, and that’s what we cherish, so we’re all very pleased to return to our home ground. The atmosphere can really give us a significant boost during the match because the fans are engaged with the team’s needs.”
Flick also touched upon Lionel Messi’s recent visit to Camp Nou, which sparked talks of a potential return to Barça for the Argentine star.
“Why not?” he responded when asked about the possibility of coaching Messi. “Ultimately, Messi is the best footballer of the last decade or more. I always admire watching him play; it’s extraordinary what he accomplishes on the field.”
“He’s a valuable asset for any team. However, the reality is that his contract is valid until 2028, while mine ends in 2027, so it’s not something I’m focusing on at the moment.”
A win against Athletic would temporarily propel Barça to the top of LaLiga, ahead of current leaders Real Madrid, who are set to face Elche on Sunday.