Winger has a fever but there is more positive news around Raphinha, Yamal and Garcia
Barcelona could be without Marcus Rashford for their return to Camp Nou on Saturday, after the forward missed two consecutive training sessions due to flu. Hansi Flick says a decision will be left as late as possible ahead of the visit of Athletic Club.
“Marcus has fever, so he was out yesterday and today,” Flick said on Friday. “There are some doubts if he is back tomorrow.”
Rashford has started 10 straight matches since September, after joining on loan from Manchester United in the summer. He has become central to Barcelona’s attack, contributing six goals and eight assists. His absence would be felt, even with attacking reinforcements beginning to return.
One of those is Raphinha, who has spent nearly two months out. The Brazil international has been cleared to play, though Flick said his role would be limited.
“The good news is Raphinha is back,” Flick said. “We will see tomorrow if 10, 15 or 20 minutes, but he’s back and it’s a big step for him.”
Lamine Yamal has also been declared available after managing a groin issue during the international break. Flick described the decision to withdraw him from Spain’s fixtures last week as a “good decision”, saying the teenager has benefited from the rest.
Elsewhere, goalkeeper Joan Garcia will return after recovering from injury, but Frenkie de Jong is suspended and Pedri will not be risked, although he has neared full recovery.
“He could return against Chelsea or in the next game, but we don’t know at the moment,” Flick said.
Saturday marks Barcelona’s first competitive match at Camp Nou since May 2023. The stadium is still far from its planned 2026 completion, with major work still ongoing and capacity currently capped at 45,000, but the move back to their traditional home ground is a significant moment for the club.
“I think we prefer to play in Camp Nou,” Flick said. He also spoke about walking onto the pitch during an open training session held two weeks ago: “It was an unbelievable feeling, seeing all the fans around. It’s a football stadium and this is what we love.”
