FC Barcelona are living days of huge anticipation. The long-awaited return to the Spotify Camp Nou, more than two years after the reconstruction began, is just around the corner — and the atmosphere around the club is electric.
With the matchup against Athletic Club as the weekend’s marquee event, every detail of the preparation has taken on extra weight… including one that immediately caught attention: Marcus Rashford’s absence from Wednesday’s training session.

A Noticeable Absence, But No Internal Alarm

Early in the day, the news spread through the media: Rashford did not appear at training and did not take part in any exercises with the squad.
Given the symbolic nature of the Camp Nou homecoming, questions arrived instantly.

However, according to Javi Miguel of Diario AS, the situation had nothing to do with an injury or physical issue.
The English forward had been granted permission by the club to miss the session due to personal matters — a fully authorized and previously agreed leave.

Everything took place under a calm, internal understanding. No tension. No red flags.

Rashford Returns Friday and Will Be Available for Flick

Inside Barça, there is complete confidence: Rashford will return to training on Friday and will be available for Hansi Flick.
A huge relief, considering the outstanding form he has shown in recent weeks. His attacking influence, his connection with Robert Lewandowski, and his ability to break open matches have made him a key piece of Barça’s offensive structure.

The timing also coincides with the gradual recovery of Raphinha, though the Brazilian is expected to start from the bench this weekend. All the more reason why Rashford’s presence carries extra weight in Flick’s match planning.

A Homecoming That Needs Its Stars

Barcelona want their return to the Camp Nou to be an emotional and footballing celebration. With 45,000 fans ready to paint the stadium in blaugrana, the team needs its stars at full throttle — and Rashford’s presence is a crucial part of that equation.

The club remains unworried: it was simply a special permit, nothing more.
And all signs indicate that on Saturday, against Athletic Club, the Camp Nou will witness another chapter in the brilliant moment the English forward is living.