FC Barcelona faces a significant challenge ahead of the highly anticipated first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal against Atlético Madrid, scheduled for Thursday at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
The club confirms that forwards Marcus Rashford and Raphinha will both miss the crucial tie due to injury concerns.
Rashford, currently on loan from Manchester United and a key part of Barcelona's attacking lineup this season, sustained a blow to his left knee during Saturday's La Liga victory over Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou.
The club’s medical team has ruled him out as a precautionary measure to ensure full recovery. "Rashford has pain in his left knee after taking a blow in the game against Mallorca," the official FC Barcelona medical report stated.
"The player will miss Thursday's Copa del Rey game against Atlético Madrid."
Raphinha, the Brazilian winger, remains sidelined with a right adductor (thigh) strain that has kept him out of recent matches. Despite hopes for his return, he did not participate in training sessions this week and has been confirmed unavailable for the first leg.
Head coach Hansi Flick expressed confidence in the squad's depth and resilience despite the absences. "We have belief in our team," Flick noted. "These are difficult situations, but we rise to the occasion. The players are prepared, and we will give everything in this important match."
The double absence represents a notable blow to Barcelona's attacking options for the high-stakes encounter against Diego Simeone's Atlético Madrid.
The Blaugrana have shown strong form throughout the season and remain determined to secure a positive result in Madrid to build momentum ahead of the return leg.
FC Barcelona thanks the fans for their continued support and looks forward to a competitive and thrilling Copa del Rey semifinal clash.