Marcus Rashford, the new game-changer for Flick on the left flank

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Rashford
10.680.000€+1.390.000€    -

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A few days ago, FC Barcelona closed the signing of Marcus Rashford, the 27-year-old English international forward, who joins on loan from Manchester United for a season, until June 2026. The deal includes a non-mandatory purchase option ranging between 30 and 35 million euros, and was made possible thanks to a 30% salary reduction by the player, who expressed a clear desire to wear the blaugrana colors.

Rashford, one of the most recognized talents in the Premier League in recent years, arrives seeking a fresh start after an inconsistent season at Old Trafford and being out of favor in the plans of Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim at Manchester United. The attacker expressed his enthusiasm for joining Barça, stating he feels "in the right place to enjoy football again" and thanking the club for "the opportunity to be part of an ambitious project with a high competitive level."

Marcus Rashford in the first two matches of FC Barcelona's Asian tour

The first match for the blaugrana club was against Vissel Kobe. The Englishman made his debut with Barça, coming on in the second half and playing around 30 minutes. Although he didn't score, he had a noteworthy performance: he showed dribbling skills, mobility on the left flank, and was involved in the play that led to Roony Bardghji's goal. It was a promising introduction.

The second match, took place on July 31 against FC Seoul. Rashford played the entire second half. This time, he was even more influential: provided his first assist for Barça, setting up Ferran Torres for one of the seven goals in the 7-3 victory. He was very active in attack and created several chances.

What role will he have at Barça?

In the scheme of the new coach Hansi Flick, Rashford will have a leading role as a left winger, his natural position, although he can also play as a second striker or even on the right if needed. Flick particularly values his speed in transitions, ability to attack spaces, and international experience, making him a key piece to complement Lamine Yamal on the right and Lewandowski as the central reference. Additionally, he will be a significant option in a demanding schedule, allowing the coach to rotate without losing offensive threat.

It is noteworthy that he is the first English player at the club since Gary Lineker and becomes one of the star signings of the summer. His versatility and football maturity make this loan a low-risk operation with high sporting potential, in a context where Barcelona is still managing its finances carefully.

Will he be a starter or an option coming off the bench?

According to reports, it is stated that the Englishman will not begin with the role of undisputed starter. The starting attacking trio: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski, were key in the championship-winning attack last season, so his place in the starting eleven will depend on performance, preseason pace, and Hansi Flick's rotations. Therefore, he is seen as a solid alternative from the bench, with the ability to come on and change key matches.

With Rashford, Barcelona signs an offensive asset with potential, a different profile, and a game-changing ability. Even if not a starter from day one, he could be crucial in the rotation during a season of maximum demand.