Flick Unleashes Five Game-Changing Moves as Barcelona Returns to Camp Nou
Barcelona's on-loan striker Marcus Rashford faces uncertainty for the team's Camp Nou comeback on Saturday, while Raphinha is set to make his return in some form.
Rashford has delivered outstanding performances for the Catalan side this campaign, recording 14 goal involvements across all tournaments (six strikes, eight assists). Head coach Hansi Flick disclosed during his pre-match media briefing that the English forward is feeling unwell. "... He was absent yesterday and today. We have some uncertainty about his availability for tomorrow."
Barça received positive updates regarding Raphinha's comeback. The talented Brazilian winger has been absent for more than two months due to a hamstring problem. Rashford has mainly covered for Raphinha's absence, though the extent of the Brazilian's involvement on Saturday remains unclear.
"I value greatly what he brings to the squad. We'll determine tomorrow whether it's 10, 15 or 20 minutes, but he's returned and it's a significant milestone for him to be back and available on the bench tomorrow," Flick commented.
Barcelona Nearly Past Early Season Injury Struggles
The current La Liga titleholders battled through numerous injuries at the season's start, most notably Lamine Yamal's persistent groin issues. As they prepare to welcome supporters back to Camp Nou, Flick is approaching a complete roster once more.
The German tactician confirmed Yamal is making good progress and stated that skipping Spain's final World Cup qualifying matches was a "wise choice." The two-time Kopa Trophy recipient should participate on Saturday versus Athletic Club.
New acquisition Joan García is also anticipated to return between the posts, marking his first outing since September 25. The Spanish goalkeeper has recovered from a meniscus injury that kept him out of nine matches in La Liga and Champions League competition.
Pedri is also nearing fitness, though Flick has earmarked next week's Champions League encounter with Chelsea for his comeback.
The Catalans remain without Gavi, who isn't expected back until early 2026, while Frenkie de Jong will miss the fixture due to suspension after receiving two bookings against Celta Vigo.
Saturday's Fixture Ends 909-Day Absence
Barcelona will compete at their partially reconstructed Camp Nou for the first time in 909 days when they welcome Athletic Club.
La Liga's defending champions were initially scheduled to return in 2024, but several delayed timelines and regulatory requirements repeatedly postponed their homecoming. Barcelona conducted an open practice session in October as preparation before confirming November 22 as the official reopening.
Their Phase 1A and 1B permits accommodate up to 45,401 attendees, less than half the planned 105,000 capacity upon completion of all construction work.
"It's a football venue and this is our passion, so naturally we're all thrilled to return to our home ground. It can provide us tremendous momentum in the match because it's very intimate and the supporters understand when the team requires this boost," Flick expressed.
Barcelona have not yet secured UEFA authorization to stage their forthcoming Champions League fixture against Eintracht Frankfurt at Camp Nou.