Marcus Rashford's departure is confirmed, Hansi Flick gives the order, the best is coming

Hansi Flick is fully focused on the upcoming league fixture that FC Barcelona will have to overcome. The Catalans will host Athletic Club at the new and renovated Camp Nou next Saturday, November 22. It won't be just any match, but the grand opening of the culé stronghold against one of the most competitive teams in LaLiga.

The sporting context doesn't invite relaxation either. Barça comes into the match with the obligation to win after the international break in order not to lose ground to Real Madrid. Los Blancos are only three points ahead, so the match against Athletic could mean drawing level with Los Blancos or falling six points behind.

Hansi Flick knows there's no room for error and has used these two weeks to adjust tactical details and make bold decisions. Among them stands out one that directly affects Marcus Rashford, one of the standout names at the start of the season. The German coach has decided that his role will change significantly against Athletic.

Hansi Flick will bench Marcus Rashford

Since arriving at Barça, Marcus Rashford's statistical and footballing impact has been more than remarkable. He already has 6 goals and 9 assists, numbers that support his place in the starting line-up and explain the high regard he enjoys in the locker room. However, there are many chances that on Saturday he'll start the match on the bench.

Hansi Flick doesn't just look at the numbers, but also at the system's balance. With Raphinha now recovered, he has no doubts: the Brazilian will start in Camp Nou opener. Number 11 has been out for over a month and the team has felt his absence in every phase of the game. His return brings back effectiveness and pressing after losing possession to the culé attack.

Raphinha is back!

Hansi Flick knows that Raphinha's importance goes beyond goals and assists. He's one of the group's competitive leaders, a footballer who transmits character, presses hard, and never hides in difficult moments. For a match as symbolic as the inauguration of the new Camp Nou, the Brazilian's presence in the starting eleven is considered almost mandatory.

That's why, barring a major surprise, Marcus Rashford will give up his spot to Raphinha in the starting line-up. The Englishman will become a luxury option off the bench, ready to break open matches in the second half and offer alternatives when the game opens up. Hansi Flick doesn't rule him out, but he is clear that the best option to start on the wing right now is Raphinha.

The fans attending Camp Nou will receive the news with great excitement. Seeing Raphinha start, in such a historic setting and against such a demanding opponent as Athletic Club, is a statement of intent from Hansi Flick. The message is clear: the experiments are over, it's time for the most decisive starters, even if that means confirming Marcus Rashford's exit from the starting eleven.