Marcus Rashford is uncertain for Barcelona‘s return to Spotify Camp Nou this weekend after missing training due to flu on Thursday and Friday.
Barça manager Hansi Flick mentioned he will decide late regarding Rashford’s availability, who has played in the last 10 matches across all competitions for his team, before Saturday’s encounter with Athletic Club.
«Marcus has a fever, so he was absent [from training] yesterday and today,» Flick confirmed during a press conference on Friday. «There are some uncertainties about whether he will return tomorrow.»
Rashford, who has scored six goals and assisted eight since his loan transfer to Barça from Manchester United, has been positioned on the left in the attack due to the unavailability of Raphinha.
However, following a two-month absence, the Brazil international is back in training, and Flick stated he will play against Athletic at Camp Nou, although not as a starter.
«The positive news is Raphinha is back,» the German boss said. «I value highly what he can contribute to the team. We will assess tomorrow whether it’s 10, 15, or 20 minutes, but he’s back, and it’s a significant step for him to return and be on the bench tomorrow.»
Flick also mentioned that Lamine Yamal is progressing well despite still dealing with a groin problem, saying it was a «wise choice» for him to miss both Spain matches during the international break as La Roja secured their spot for next summer’s World Cup.
In other news, goalkeeper Joan García is ready to return to goal against Athletic, while Frenkie de Jong will be sidelined due to suspension, and it is also too early for Pedri, who «might come back against Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday or the next game, but it’s uncertain at this moment.»
Saturday’s match against Athletic marks Barça’s initial game at Camp Nou since their temporary move to the Olympic Stadium for renovations in 2023.
The refurbishment is ongoing, with 2027 anticipated as the completion date for adding the third tier and roof, and Saturday’s match will have a limited attendance of 45,000, yet Flick is thrilled to be back.
«I think we prefer to compete at Camp Nou,» he stated. «During the open training session two weeks ago, I walked up the stairs and witnessed the pitch; it was an incredible feeling, seeing all the supporters around.
«This is a football stadium, and this is what we cherish, so naturally, we’re all excited to return to our ground. It can provide us a significant boost during the game because it’s very intimate, and the fans understand when the team requires that extra push.»
Flick also discussed Lionel Messi’s unexpected visit to Camp Nou, which spurred rumors of a potential return as a player to Barça.
«Why not?» he responded when asked if he would consider coaching the Argentina star. «But ultimately, you know Messi is the finest footballer of the last decade or more. I always enjoy watching him play, it’s remarkable what he’s achieving.
«Certainly, I believe he would benefit any team. Yet the reality is his contract expires in 2028, while mine ends in 2027, so it’s not a topic for me.»
Barça could temporarily ascend to the top of LaLiga with a win over Athletic on Saturday before current leaders Real Madrid play against Elche on Sunday.
