Barcelona face a mounting injury crisis ahead of their Copa del Rey semifinal against Atlético Madrid, with Marcus Rashford joining Raphinha on the sidelines. The Manchester United loanee picked up a knee knock in Saturday's LaLiga win over Mallorca and will miss Thursday's first leg as a precaution, according to manager Hansi Flick.

Flick expressed frustration at the timing, noting that Barcelona are already without key players including Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen. The German coach revealed Rashford isn't expected to be out long-term, but uncertainty remains over Raphinha's return from a thigh problem. The Brazilian was initially given a one-week recovery timeline 10 days ago, yet still hasn't returned to training.

Despite facing only lower-division opponents en route to the semifinals, Flick rejected suggestions that their cup run lacks credibility. Barcelona eliminated Albacete, who had previously knocked out Real Madrid, in the quarterfinals. The second leg against Atlético is scheduled for March 3 at Spotify Camp Nou, with the winner advancing to face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club in the April final.