Marcus Rashford is tipped to make his Barcelona comeback against Chelsea next week after missing the weekend clash with Athletic due to a lack of training time.
The forward was believed to be close to featuring on Saturday, but the club decided not to rush him back after he missed sessions following the international break. Barça return to Champions League action on 25 November, and the expectation inside the camp is that Rashford will be fit enough to make the squad for the showdown with the Blues.
Rashford has a strong record against Chelsea, scoring five goals and adding three assists in 21 meetings across all competitions. With four goals and two assists already in Europe this season, his return would be a massive boost for Xabi Alonso’s side as they push to secure knockout qualification.
The England star has been sharp in continental action, causing havoc in transition and linking up well with Madrid and Vini Jr, and Barça believes he can hit the ground running once he returns.
For now, focus stays on domestic business. Barcelona face Athletic at the Camp Nou on Saturday afternoon, knowing a win could take them level on points with leaders Real Madrid. Rashford will watch from the sidelines, but all signs are pointing to a return under the Champions League lights next week.
