Rashford Recovers and Strengthens Barcelona for the Clash Against Chelsea
Marcus Rashford has overcome the flu and is ready to return to the field with Barcelona this week. The team will face Chelsea in an exciting Champions League match in London.
The 28-year-old forward missed the recent match at the Spotify Camp Nou, where Barcelona achieved a resounding 4-0 victory over Athletic Club in LaLiga. The absence was due to physical problems that prevented him from training in the days leading up to the match.
However, Rashford rejoined training with his teammates on Sunday and Monday, and will be available to coach Hansi Flick in Tuesday’s clash at Stamford Bridge.Marcus Rashford ready to face Chelsea with Barcelona.The forward, on loan from Manchester United, has had an outstanding performance in Europe with Barcelona this season, scoring four goals, including two in the match against Newcastle United, and providing an assist in four appearances.
In total, he has scored six goals and provided eight assists in 16 matches across all competitions for the Spanish team.
The return of Rashford poses a challenge for Flick, as the German coach regains several key players who were injured.
Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal started in the match against Athletic, while Raphinha reappeared as a substitute after a two-month injury.
With Rashford back, Flick has five players for only three positions, although he has also used Raphinha as an attacking midfielder on occasion.
Goalkeeper Joan García also returned on the weekend after a two-month absence, helping Barcelona keep a clean sheet for the first time since September. However, Pedri, Gavi, and Marc André ter Stegen are still absent.
Pedri could return at the weekend when Alavés visit Camp Nou, but Gavi and Ter Stegen are not expected to return soon.
The match on Tuesday in London offers Barcelona the opportunity to recover from the disappointing 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League.
Like Chelsea, Barcelona currently has seven points in four matches, placing them in 11th place in the standings. A win this week would bring them closer to their goal of securing a spot in the top eight.
Barcelona Close to Renewing Eric García
Barcelona is close to agreeing a new long-term contract with Eric García, according to sources close to the club.
García’s current contract expires next summer, but positive talks in recent weeks suggest an agreement is imminent.
The defender, who previously played for Manchester City, has become a key player under Hansi Flick this season, standing out as a central defender, right-back and even as a defensive midfielder.
García will be the last in a series of strategic renewals, following in the footsteps of Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. The next decision of the sports director, Deco, now focuses on Robert Lewandowski and Andreas Christensen.
Once García renews, they will be the only permanent members of the current squad whose contracts expire in 2026.
