Barcelona has not had the best month and has suffered back-to-back losses in all competitions. Hansi Flick has now been handed a double injury boost as the club looks to avoid a third straight defeat.
Two Barcelona Stars Overcome Injuries, Rejoin Training Under Hansi Flick
Barcelona had been enjoying a strong season, having already won the Spanish Super Cup, advanced to the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, reached the Copa del Rey semifinal, and sat atop the league table. However, things took a drastic turn last week with losses to Atletico Madrid and Girona.
Flick’s side was thrashed 4-0 by Diego Simeone’s team in the Copa del Rey semifinal first leg. The Catalan club looked to bounce back in La Liga, but Girona surprised them with a 2-1 victory.
The German manager was searching for a spark and has now received a double injury boost. Pedri and Marcus Rashford have rejoined first-team training after missing recent games.
Pedri was sidelined for a month, while Rashford dealt with a knee issue in recent days. The forward has been an impact substitute this season, but the midfielder is considered a key player in Flick’s system.
READ MORE: Manchester United Second-Guess Marcus Rashford Deal As Price Tag Soars After Barcelona Loan
The Manchester United loanee will still have to wait to see if his future lies in Spain. Barcelona sporting director Deco spoke about the forward earlier this month and said:
“It’s a loan, and we have an option. I think it wasn’t easy to come here. He has played at a very high level, with enormous demands at a club like Manchester United. IÂ know this because I’ve spoken to people there. But he only wanted to come to Barca, and that’s a very positive thing.
“We were able to secure a loan. The fact that he took a pay cut to make it happen is a clear demonstration that he really wanted to come, and we’re very happy about that. He’s a player who contributes a lot to the team.”
Barcelona has a $35 million option to sign Rashford this summer but has not activated it yet. Reports in England suggest the club wants to extend his loan for another season before making the move permanent. Manchester United is open to all options, as the club does not plan to add him back to the squad and wants to keep his wages off the books.
