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Barcelona Receive Rashford Boost, But Pedri Remains Sidelined for Chelsea Clash
Barcelona have received positive news regarding Marcus Rashford’s fitness ahead of their Champions League match against chelsea. The forward returned to training on Sunday, alleviating concerns after missing sessions on Thursday and Friday, and being absent from camp Nou on Saturday. Initial explanations for his absence ranged from personal matters to a minor physical issue and then the flu, causing some uncertainty, but his presence at Ciutat Esportiva suggests he will be included in the travelling squad.
Though, Barcelona will be without Pedri for the trip to London. The midfielder failed to participate in Sunday’s team training,definitively ending hopes of a swift recovery. Pedri has been out of action since sustaining a left hamstring injury during the October 26th El Clasico match. Despite recent progress, the club has decided to prioritize a cautious approach to his rehabilitation, now anticipating his return either against Deportivo Alaves this weekend or, at the latest, against Atletico Madrid on December 2nd.
In further team news,Frenkie de Jong is available for selection after serving a suspension during Saturday’s match against Athletic Club. His availability provides a boost for coach Flick as he prepares to counter chelsea’s strong midfield. Alejandro Balde is also expected to feature despite leaving the 4-0 victory over Athletic club with a slight limp, while several other first-team players focused on recovery work following the weekend fixture.
