Marcus Rashford was not present for Barcelona training on Thursday, just two days before the club's long-awaited return to the Camp Nou
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona(Image: Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
View Image
Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford was notably absent from Barcelona's training session on Thursday, despite his Manchester United team-mates returning from international duty to gear up for Saturday's showdown with Athletic Club.
Despite being spotted at the Ciutat Esportiva just a day previously, Rashford was given permission to miss Thursday's training due to "personal reasons", according to Diario AS. However, it's reported that he'll be back in action with Hansi Flick's squad on Friday.
It seems that Rashford's absence is not cause for alarm, with the on-loan United star still expected to feature this weekend in La Liga. Barcelona are gearing up to take on Athletic Club at Camp Nou this Saturday, aiming to close the three-point gap currently held by Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga table.
Rashford's dream of playing at Barcelona's iconic home ground is set to come true this weekend. The club has been unable to host matches at Camp Nou since 2023 due to a whopping £1.3billion refurbishment, instead playing their home games at the Lluis Company's Olympic Stadium.
However, this weekend marks a change as Flick's side return to their newly revamped stadium. The club announced that they've been granted a license to return, with over 45,000 fans expected to witness the action.
A statement read: "FC Barcelona informs that the match corresponding to matchday 13 of the League, against Athletic Club, scheduled for Saturday, November 22 at 16:15 hours, will finally be played at Spotify Camp Nou.
"This decision comes after obtaining the first occupancy license corresponding to Phase 1B, which allows increasing the capacity up to 45,401 spectators. This authorization includes the entire Lateral area and adds to the license already granted for Phase 1A, which covers the Tribune and South Goal.
"The Club continues working on Phase 1C to guarantee the resumption of activity in the North Goal, gathering all operational, security, and comfort conditions for members and fans."
Discussing the chance to feature at the Camp Nou whilst wearing a Barcelona shirt, Rashford revealed this week during an open training session: "It’s a very nice feeling. It’s a beautiful stadium and when it is full it’s going to be unbelievable.
"Camp Nou was always one of my favourite stadiums and one I wanted to play in. But to play on it for Barcelona is going to be a different feeling. I cannot wait to be on the pitch. I will enjoy it."
The Camp Nou remains under extensive renovation work, and won't reach completion until 2027.
Once finished, the ground will accommodate up to 105,000 supporters, establishing it as the fifth-largest stadium globally. Rashford, currently on a season-long loan at Barcelona from United, is continuing to impress during his time in Spain.
The Catalan giants have the option to make his move permanent next summer.
Rashford has been a revelation for Barcelona, netting six goals and providing nine assists in just 16 appearances across all competitions. His impressive form could tempt Barcelona into making his move a permanent one.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image
Content Image