Barcelona Get Key Fitness Boost Ahead of Chelsea Clash
- Admin
- Nov 24, 2025
- 2 min read
Barcelona are hoping for a timely fitness boost ahead of their crucial Champions League match against Chelsea, with Marcus Rashford set to return after recovering from the flu.
Rashford, who had been a key figure for the team since joining on loan from Manchester United, missed Barcelona’s dominant 4–0 win over Athletic Club in La Liga, the first match he had been absent from since joining. Before the illness, the England international had started 12 of the previous 13 games across La Liga and the Champions League, establishing himself as an integral part of Hansi Flick’s preferred lineup.
Despite Rashford’s absence, Barcelona didn’t miss a beat in their Camp Nou return, with Ferran Torres stepping up to score twice in the victory. However, having Rashford back for the Chelsea game will be a significant boost.
Rashford's Return: Boost for Barcelona, Dilemma for Flick
After missing two training sessions due to illness, Rashford was back in training on Sunday alongside his teammates, as reported by SPORT. He is expected to train for the next two days to regain his match fitness, to join the squad that travels to London on Monday ahead of Tuesday’s showdown.
The key question for Flick will be whether to reward Torres with another start after his stellar performance or immediately reinstate Rashford to the lineup. Much will depend on how sharp Rashford looks after his brief absence.
Pedri Still Out for Barcelona
While one player returns, Barcelona will still be without their midfield maestro, Pedri. The Spanish international has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since the Clásico defeat to Real Madrid on October 26. Despite hopes of a quick recovery, Pedri has yet to return to complete training, leaving him unavailable for the Chelsea clash.
On the plus side, Barcelona will welcome the return of Frenkie de Jong, who missed the Athletic Club match due to a domestic suspension in La Liga. His fresh legs could prove crucial as Barcelona aim to secure a vital result in London.
With Rashford’s recovery, de Jong’s return, and the absence of Pedri, Barcelona are gearing up for an exciting match against Chelsea, hoping to keep their momentum rolling in the Champions League.
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