Rashford out as Barcelona battle injury crisis ahead of Copa semifinal

Barcelona will be without Marcus Rashford for Thursday’s Copa del Rey semifinal first leg against Atlético Madrid as the club grapples with a growing injury crisis.

Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, suffered a knee knock during Saturday’s La Liga victory over Mallorca and has been ruled out as a precaution. He now joins the duo of Raphinha and Pedri, both very important players who have been sidelined with injuries.

Coach Hansi Flick confirmed the setback on Wednesday, saying, “He got a hit, so it’s painful and we have to take care. This is not good news, but I believe in my team, even if the situation is not easy.” The forward’s absence adds to Barcelona’s injury woes, which already include Raphinha, Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen.

Raphinha, sidelined with a thigh problem, was initially expected to return within a week, but he has yet to resume training. Flick urged patience, emphasising the need to manage the recovery of key players carefully. “Step by step. He’s a player who always gives everything. When he feels something, we have to take care, maybe go one step back,” the coach said.

Despite the absences, Barcelona have advanced to the semifinals with wins over Guadalajara, Racing Santander, and Albacete. Atlético Madrid will be the first top-flight opponent they face in this season’s Copa del Rey, though Flick dismissed any suggestion that their previous victories were devalued.

The first leg in Madrid takes place Thursday, while the second leg at Spotify Camp Nou is scheduled for March 3.

The winner will face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club, who begin their semifinal tie this week, in the April final.

culled from vanguard