Barcelona have received the huge boost they needed as their preparations intensify for a pivotal clash against Chelsea.
Overcoming doubts and fitness concerns, the squad’s mood was lifted considerably during the latest training sessions at the newly reopened Spotify Camp Nou.
The coaching staff and supporters alike had anxiously tracked injury updates amid the intense fixture list, making any positive news about the return of vital squad members especially significant as the team eyes continental success.
The relief came thanks to Marcus Rashford, whose return after a short bout of flu arrived at exactly the right moment for Hansi Flick’s side, as reported by Diario Sport.
Rashford had missed Barcelona’s emphatic 4-0 win over Athletic Club and the preceding training sessions, leaving a void in attack and prompting speculation over the frontline for the coming matches.
With Champions League ambitions in the balance, Rashford reported to the squad as normal and completed recovery drills, signaling readiness to rejoin full training immediately.
Flick is expected to monitor his progress over the next couple of days, but early indications are that the forward will be fit in both rhythm and sharpness for the trip to London, offering Barcelona renewed attacking options.
Other updates further steadied nerves in the squad.
Alejandro Balde, whose substitution against Athletic sparked concern after feeling dizzy following a collision, came through the morning’s session without complication.
His availability could allow Flick to reinforce Barcelona’s flanks with energy and pace against Chelsea, another significant lift given the team’s defensive plans.
Not every headline was positive, however, as Pedri remains unavailable.
Still working individually on his fitness, the midfielder is being cautiously held back with the club prioritizing a full and sustainable recovery over a rushed return.
The medical team and Flick believe this approach will ensure Pedri’s comeback is timely and safe, targeting the next La Liga match against Alaves for his reappearance.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
