Club releases statement announcing setback for United loanee, manager says it’s “not good news”

Barcelona have confirmed that Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has suffered an injury ahead of their upcoming meeting with Atletico Madrid. Rashford enjoying life in Barcelona Rashford has enjoyed dramatically improved fortunes since he parted ways with United in the summer to seal a season-long loan move to Barcelona. He fell out of favour under now-sacked head coach Ruben Amorim, who named him in the infamous ‘bomb squad.’ Rashford has been a key player for the Blaugrana in their bid to retain their La Liga crown. The England international has made 21 top-flight appearances, contributing four goals and eight assists. He has notched 10 goals and 13 assists across all competitions. CompetitionLaLigaChampions LeagueCopa del ReySupercopa Appearances21832 Goals451- Assists 841- Barcelona retain the option of making his stay a permanent one for £26million and there have already been rumours that they are seriously weighing it up. Rashford has made no secret of his desire to continue playing under Hansi Flick, who has repeatedly declared his admiration for the player. On Wednesday afternoon, the Catalan giants released a statement announcing that Rashford will not be available for selection during the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final encounter on Thursday against Atletico Madrid. Barcelona release Rashford statement The statement reads, “First-team player Marcus Rashford is experiencing discomfort in his left knee due to a blow received during the match against Mallorca.” “He will sit out tomorrow’s match against Atlético de Madrid as a precautionary measure.” 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐃𝐎 𝐌𝐄́𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐎 El jugador del primer equipo 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗥𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 presenta unas molestias en la rodilla izquierda derivadas de un golpe recibido en el partido ante el Mallorca. Es baja por precaución para el partido de mañana contra el Atlético de… pic.twitter.com/UftITmYVf6 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) February 11, 2026 Speaking at a press conference, Flick told reporters [as quoted by Barca Blaugranes], “We’ve had some problems. Rashford isn’t ready; he took a knock. It’s not good news, but I believe in my team. The situation isn’t easy.” “We’re playing against a fantastic team. I saw the Cup match against Betis, and it was impressive. Cholo is doing a great job at Atlético. I really appreciate what I saw. It will be a tough match tomorrow.” Flick added, “Step by step. We have to take care of him. He’s a player who gives his all, with great intensity. If he feels something, we have to be careful.” “This is the situation. I’m not happy because we need him, like Pedri, Gavi, Andreas, or Marcus.” Meanwhile, United return to action on 23 February when they go away to Everton. Featured image Alex Caparros via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!