Barcelona forward and midfielder absent from training ahead of Real Betis clash | Barca Universal

"FC Barcelona are holding their final training session ahead of Sunday's home game against Real Betis in La Liga. Having been beaten by Alaves last time out, the Catalans will be eager to get back to winning ways and send their fans home smiling in what will be the final home match of the season."

"Leading up to the game, though, SPORT reports that Frenkie de Jong and Marcus Rashford did not take part in training, and the reasons for their absences remain unclear. De Jong had already been left out of the squad for the match against Alaves, although he was seen back on the training pitch yesterday. Rashford, meanwhile, participated normally in Friday's session, and the club has not released any statement regarding a physical issue."

"Hansi Flick is scheduled to speak to the media shortly and is expected to provide an update regarding both players. For now, Barcelona maintain that there is no injury, particularly, in De Jong's case, with the German coach expected to clarify exactly what is happening with the Dutch midfielder."

"Meanwhile, Fermin Lopez and Raphinha, who also missed the squad for the previous match, trained normally and are expected to play important roles against Real Betis. Among the Barça Atletic players involved in training under Flick, Jofre Torrents once again stood out after also participating on Friday. Alongside the young full-back, Diego Kochen, Eder Aller, Tommy Marques, Alvaro Cortes and Xavi Espart were also present with the senior squad as Barcelona continue integrating academy players during the final stages of the season."

Barcelona hold their final training session before Sunday’s home La Liga game against Real Betis after a loss to Alaves. Frenkie de Jong and Marcus Rashford did not take part in training, and the reasons for their absences remain unclear. De Jong had been left out of the squad for the Alaves match but was seen back on the training pitch the previous day. Rashford participated normally in Friday’s session, and the club has not issued any statement about a physical problem. Hansi Flick is scheduled to speak to the media and is expected to clarify the situation for both players. Fermin Lopez and Raphinha trained normally and are expected to play key roles, while several Barça Atletic academy players joined the senior squad during training.

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