The return of Barcelona to Spotify Camp Nou this weekend could be marred by the possible absence of Marcus Rashford. Rashford, who has started in the last ten matches in all competitions, is doubtful for the match against Athletic Club due to a flu that prevented him from training on Thursday and Friday.
Coach’s Statements
The Barça coach, Hansi Flick, has confirmed that he will make a late decision on Rashford’s participation in Saturday’s match.Rashford, since his arrival at Barça on loan, has scored six goals and provided eight assists, playing on the left wing of the attack. On the other hand, the good news for the team is the return of Raphinha, who has been out of action for two months. Flick hopes to have him for the match against Athletic at the Camp Nou, although not from the start.Marcus has a fever, so he didn’t train yesterday or today. There are some doubts about whether he will be available tomorrow.
Hansi Flick
Furthermore, Flick confirmed that Lamine Yamal is doing well, despite still managing a groin injury, and considered it a “good decision” that he missed Spain’s matches during the international break. Regarding the goalkeeping situation, Joan García is ready to return, but Frenkie de Jong will miss the match due to suspension, and Pedri will still not be available, although he could return against Chelsea in the Champions League. The match against Athletic will mark Barça’s return to Camp Nou after the team played at the Olympic Stadium to allow for the stadium’s renovation in 2023. The renovation is not yet finished, with the completion of the third tier and the roof scheduled for 2027. Saturday’s match will be played with a capacity limited to 45,000 spectators, but Flick is enthusiastic about the return.The good news is that Raphinha is back. I really appreciate what he can bring to the team. We’ll see tomorrow if he plays 10, 15 or 20 minutes, but he’s back and it’s a big step for him to be on the bench tomorrow.
Hansi Flick
I think we prefer to play at Camp Nou. When we had the open training two weeks ago, I went up the stairs and saw the pitch, it was an incredible 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 return to our stadium. It can give us a great boost in the match because it is very close and the fans know when the team needs this boost.
Hansi Flick
Barcelona can temporarily go top of LaLiga with a win against Athletic on Saturday, before current leaders Real Madrid face Elche on Sunday.Why not? But in the end, Messi is the best footballer of the last 10 years or more. I always appreciate watching him play football, it’s incredible what he’s doing. Of course, I think it’s good for all teams. But the facts are that his contract expires in 2028, mine ends in 2027, so for me it’s not a question.
Hansi Flick
