Barcelona Manager Hansi Flick has given an update on the star players’ fitness as they return to action against Athletic Club on Saturday afternoon. It will be their first game back at Camp Nou, with 45,500 fans allowed in the ground.
The Catalan side are expecting a number of star players to return from injury, but there was no surprise in the days before the game for Marcus Rashford. Flick explained at the Bests Press conference that the On-Loan Manchester forward was still being judged by the flu. He also confirmed that Raphinha can be in his first game since September.
“Marcus has a fever and was out yesterday and today, and I doubt if he will be available tomorrow, but we will see what he can see, and we will see, but we are a big step back.”
Flick on Lamine Yamal – ‘It’s a Good Decision’ He didn’t play for Spain
One of the controversial topics during the international break was the treatment of Lamine Yamal’s injury. Barcelona treated him with a sports hernia after playing Celta Vigo, meaning he could not attend the Spain match. Flick gave an update on his progress.
“He’s worked hard the last two weeks, that’s all I can say. I can’t say he’s done, he’s stepping up and handling it well and working well and working with the staff.”
“Lamine is our player and we care about him as much as the federation does. It’s a good decision that he didn’t play two tries because it was a big step for him to be able to handle that injury well.”
He did not want to be drawn into a further war of words with Spanish manager Luis De La Fuente, who expressed his surprise at Barcelona’s actions.
“Now we are focused on the club, there are nine games to come and we want to win and focus on that, it is our job and we will not think about other things and other noise, tomorrow we play and I am happy.”
Pedri remains skeptical of Chelsea’s contention
Despite reports last week hoping that Pedri’s chances of returning to training this week for the rest of the team, the Canary Islander continued to work individually on Friday. Barcelona face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
“I don’t know if he’ll be ready for Tuesday. We’re taking it one step at a time. We’re not going to put any pressure on him, but we’re happy with his progress.”
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The blaugrana will be without both PEDRI and Frenkie de Jong against Athletic Club, where it was suspended. Marc Casado is expected to start in his absence.
“We know how we want to bring De Jong back, we will see tomorrow. Frenkie, like Pedri, are two big players who give us a lot of confidence in football, but we think we will do well.”
Joan Garcia to return to starting XI
One piece of good news for Fick to confirm is the return of Joan Garcia, who will start at the Nou camp.
“What do you think? Yes, of course, you are right,” he replied with a smile when asked if he would return.