Barcelona will be aiming to get back into the UEFA Champions League as they take on Chelsea on Tuesday at Stamford Bridge.
It will be largely an unseen territory for a Barcelona squad brimming with homegrown talents, with very little experience of travelling to England.
However, that is perhaps why Marcus Rashford could prove to be an even important component for Barcelona’s plans heading into this game at Stamford.
Chelsea is Rashford’s favourite opponent
With over 400 appearances for Manchester United, Rashford is well aware of facing an English opponent.
What is particularly interesting, though, is that the Englishman seems to particularly know what it’s like to face Chelsea, who are apparently the players’ most favourite opponent.
Indeed, in a career that has spanned almost 500 club appearances, Chelsea is Rashford’s joint-most favourite opponent.
Marcus Rashford, Barcelona star
Rashford loves scoring against Chelsea. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
In the 21 matches he has played against Chelsea, Rashford has scored six goals while mustering five assists. The tally of 11 goal involvements is tied with Newcastle United and ranks as two of his favourite opponents.
Rashford’s lethal scoring record against Chelsea is certainly a plus for Barcelona as they look to navigate these tough conditions.
Heading into this game, it was thought that Rashford might not make it for the trip to Stamford Bridge, having missed the earlier game due to a fever.
But the Englishman has officially returned to the Barcelona setup, and with a tally of four goals and two assists already in the Champions League, the 28-year-old will be determined to make an impact at Stamford Bridge.
Unfortunately, with Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski both in great form, Rashford may have to start the game on the bench and come on later as a substitute.