FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has handed Marcus Rashford a timely opportunity to revive his campaign, stating the England winger has a "big chance" to prove his worth following Raphinha's injury. The Brazil international will be out until May with a hamstring problem sustained during a friendly against France, ruling him out of key matches including the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, started the season strongly but has seen limited action recently. Flick confirmed the 27-year-old is back in contention but faces competition from Fermin Lopez and Gavi, both of whom are options for the right-wing role. Gavi, recently returned to full training, has also earned praise from the German tactician.
Barcelona face Atletico Madrid three times in 11 days, beginning with Saturday's La Liga clash at the Metropolitano. Defenders Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde and Eric Garcia are available, but Frenkie de Jong remains sidelined. Flick revealed he allowed Raphinha to spend a few days in Brazil with his family to recover mentally after the injury, describing the player as "very disappointed" and "down." The club holds an option to buy Rashford for 30 million euros ($35 million), a decision yet to be made. Flick emphasized the need for squad depth during this critical stretch of fixtures.
Raphinha's absence isn't just a setback for Barcelona—it's a defining moment for Rashford. When Flick says Rashford has a "big chance," he's signaling that performance now determines whether a 30 million euro investment makes sense. This isn't about potential; it's about delivering when the spotlight shifts from the injured star to the man waiting in the wings.
