Barcelona have received a major boost ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League showdown against Chelsea, as Marcus Rashford has returned to training at just the right moment.
After the historic 4-0 win over Athletic Club in the reopening of Spotify Camp Nou, the squad regrouped for a light recovery session, and the morning brought encouraging updates for Hansi Flick and his staff.
The biggest talking point centred around Rashford’s condition.
As per SPORT, the forward, who had missed the previous two training sessions due to flu and was consequently left out of the matchday squad for the Athletic clash, arrived alongside his teammates and took part in the session as normal.
This development was exactly what the club hoped for. The coaching staff plan for Rashford to train fully today and tomorrow, allowing him to regain rhythm before travelling with the squad to London.
Updates on Balde and Pedri
Pedri, Barcelona player
Pedri will be unavailable for the Chelsea clash. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Another concern for the team was Alejandro Balde, who had been substituted during the Athletic Club match after experiencing mild dizziness following a collision.
The full-back, however, trained without any issues today. If Flick gives the green light, Balde could even be in contention to start against Chelsea, reinforcing Barcelona’s flank with his trademark energy and pace.
The only player who will not feature in the travelling squad is Pedri. The midfielder continues working individually to rebuild his fitness, but Barcelona are adamant that rushing him back now would be irresponsible.
Flick and the medical team agree that, despite the importance of the upcoming Champions League match, Pedri must return only when fully ready.
The expectation is that he will be available for Barcelona’s next La Liga fixture, which is against Alaves, ensuring his comeback is both safe and sustainable.