Marcus Rashford was back in a familiar stomping ground on Thursday as Barcelona travelled to England for the Champions League clash with Newcastle.
While Manchester United have no European football to compete in this season, Marcus Rashford does and he is making the most of the spotlight at Barcelona.
After falling out with Ruben Amorim, United sent Rashford on loan to Barcelona for this season, but on Thursday night, the club will feel regret.
Rashford made his first start for Barcelona in the Champions League against Newcastle and the forward scored both goals for the Spanish side in a 2-1 win.
Bruno Fernandes was left in awe of Rashford’s second goal in particular which was an absolute rocket which Nick Pope stood no chance of keeping out.
Fernandes’ post wasn’t the only praise being sent at Rashford, with Spanish press blown away by his outing.
Marcus Rashford heralded for his performance by Spanish press
Rashford was sensational for Barcelona against Newcastle, reminding the entire Premier League of his insane ability, and also the player United have lost.
Spanish media were also very impressed.
Sport rated Rashford’s performance an 8/10, labelling him ‘lord’ for his two-goal display before writing an impressive review.
“He returned to England, to his homeland, and left very motivated. He tried it from the first moment, with more or less success. And in the second part, he showed his most devastating version. Header and great goal after personal play. Sir Marcus.”
Another Spanish outlet, Mundo Deportivo, wrote that Rashford had been “unleashed” against Newcastle, handing him a 10/10 rating.
“He achieved the 0-1 with a powerful and determined header after Koundé’s center, a reward for his persistence in a game in which he was starting many things without finishing any. And once uncomplexed, he invented the 0-2 with a formidable right-hand with the right from outside the area. A great goal.”
Marca wrote “luckily there was no room for Rashford in United” as the headline for their article on the game, before raving about how the loanee performed.
“He debuted as a culé director in his country. With a double. In the 58th minute, he finished exceptionally a cross from Kounde, and eleven minutes later he scored the second goal with a strong shot from the front with the right. A great way to vindicate yourself and shut up. But, in addition, he gave ambition, concentration, intensity, and sacrifice.”
- READ MORE: Who is Marcus Rashford? Inside the life of Man Utd’s book-writing, government-tackling ace
Marcus Rashford stats against Newcastle United
When Rashford stated a desire to leave Manchester United last December, nights like Thursday in a Barcelona kit are likely what he was thinking of.
Rashford was the man of the match for the game, as the 27-year-old had an 82 minute performance which showed his absolute best levels.
- 82 minutes
- 2 goals
- 2 chances created
- 64 touches
- 4 passes into the final third
- 1 tackle
- 3 clearances
- 6 recoveries
- 3 duels won
Rashford will have sent a statement to United with this performance, with fans expressing concern over having lost Rashford in order to back Amorim.
If Rashford has a season like this, there is no chance he will return as Barcelona will be sure to trigger the buy option in his contract. This feels like a real shame as the academy graduate should have been a lifetime United player.
However, we can’t help but feel delighted for him.
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