Marcus Rashford proved he is the man for the big occasion, scoring in his first Champions League game for Barcelona.
The last time Marcus Rashford and Manchester United played in the Champions League was 2023. And with the Red Devils failing to qualify for the competition once again, Rashford took matters into his own hands.
Rashford landed a dream loan move to Barcelona, and scored a brace to fire them to a 2-1 victory away at Newcastle.
The forward’s two goals elicited a strong reaction from Manchester United fans, seeing one of the club’s academy favourites show what he is capable of on the biggest stage.
Even Bruno Fernandes was impressed, sending Rashford a message on social media after the game.
Guillem Balague on Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford’s form has been subject of some interesting debate over the past two seasons.
After he struck 30 goals in the 2022/23 season, he struggled the following year, scoring in single digits, and was dropped from the England squad for Euro 2024.
He began last season poorly for United, and was loaned to Aston Villa, where he scored only four goals.
Now at Barcelona, he has struck twice already, a poignant reminder of his ability when he is on his game.
Spanish football analyst Guillem Balague posted on X following Barcelona’s 2-0 win over Newcastle. He lauded Rashford’s quality, pointing out that what he lacks, he makes up for in other areas.
“See? Rashford IS special
“Better as a 9 or in central position, than in the wing where he has a lot of work to do without the ball
“Perhaps he hasn’t got the aggression of others, but he makes up with flashes of pace, quality and finishing
“Barcelona/Flick very happy with him.”
Barcelona happiness is good news for Manchester United
Manchester United wanted to sell Marcus Rashford in the summer, but due to his high wages, no club were willing to pay those and pay a big transfer fee – at least based on his recent form.
A big season in Spain could make Rashford’s permanent move to Spain a formality, and net a valuable fee for Manchester United next summer.
There is a long way to go between now and then, but if Rashford can turn in performances like these on a regular basis, he will become essential to their future.
Barcelona won this game without Lamine Yamal, who was missing with an injury. They will be a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League this season.
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