Marcus Rashford is a significant doubt for Barcelona's La Liga clash with Athletic Club on Saturday after missing training for the second consecutive day due to illness. The Manchester United loanee, who has been ever-present this season, was absent from Thursday's session and returned to Barcelona's Ciutat Esportiva base on Friday morning only to be sent home shortly after 9am.
According to Spanish reports, the 28-year-old is battling a severe cold and fever. Manager Hansi Flick confirmed the issue in his press conference, saying: 'Marcus has a fever and was out yesterday and today, and I have doubts about whether he'll be available tomorrow.' The club is expected to release a medical statement on Friday.
Rashford has been in outstanding form since joining Barcelona on loan until the end of the season, scoring six goals and providing nine assists in 16 appearances across all competitions. His standout performances include braces against Newcastle and Olympiacos in the Champions League, as well as an assist in last month's 2-1 El Clasico defeat.
Should Rashford be ruled out, it would be a major blow as Barcelona are set to play at Camp Nou for the first time in over two years. However, there is positive news for Flick as Joan Garcia, Raphinha, Marc Casado and Lamine Yamal have all recovered from injuries and are available for Saturday. Midfielder Pedri remains a doubt after training separately all week.
Rashford will hope to be fit for Tuesday's Champions League trip to Chelsea, before Barcelona face Alaves on November 29 and a huge home game against Atletico Madrid on December 2.
