"Tuesday evening saw the return of the Champions League, and the first match of the competition to be played at Spotify Camp Nou since the refurbishment. Down in 18th place in the table at the start of play, it was quite clear that if Barcelona wanted to have any chance of finishing the league phase in the automatic qualification positions, then nothing less than three points would be acceptable."
"No culer will have forgotten the scene at Camp Nou back in 2022, when the Bundesliga outfit not only won 3-2, but brought so many fans with them, that the stadium was bathed in white and it looked like an away fixture. The team that took the field on that occasion included Ferran Torres, Eric Garcia, Pedri, Gavi, Ronald Araujo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, with only the first three of those players in the frame for the 'reunion.'"
"Not quite a statement performance from the Englishman, his contribution still shouldn't be overlooked. Nor should the manner in which he has taken his opportunity ever since arriving at the club. Even now, there appears to be consistent discussions amongst culers on why Rashford isn't the right fit for the club because Raphinha and Lamine have to start - but that rather misses the point."
Champions League returned to Spotify Camp Nou after the refurbishment. Barcelona began the evening in 18th place and needed three points to keep hopes of automatic qualification alive. Barcelona sought revenge for a 2022 defeat when Eintracht Frankfurt won 3-2 and brought so many fans that Camp Nou was bathed in white. Only Ferran Torres, Eric Garcia and Pedri from that 2022 group were available for a reunion. Jules Kounde scored twice. Marcus Rashford's introduction significantly changed the game and his contributions should not be overlooked. Debate persists about his fit versus Raphinha and Lamine, but Rashford offers a different, needed profile in a World Cup year while seeking a new contract.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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