- Rashford’s moments that took the spotlight
- What the Spanish media said
- Old Trafford return hanging by a thread
Marcus Rashford has played a huge role in Barcelona’s season, and the Manchester United loanee’s latest exploits caused a big response from Spanish media.
The Catalan side picked up a huge 4-1 victory over Espanyol. However, it was a mixed day for the winger. On Saturday, his team leapt closer to the Spanish title. The missed opportunity in the second half encapsulated the whole game for the Englishman. Later, he did find the back of the net from a Frankie de Jong cross.
Despite Rahsford’s late effort, giving a nine-point lead at the top. It felt more like the media had to focus on the miss. Cheers and jeers came for Rashford after he scored the 12th goal of the campaign. Besides, it was his second since returning from a brief injury in February
Spanish media on Rashford vs Espanyol
Mundo Deportivo called the 28-year-old ‘persistent.’ Additionally, the outlet spoke about his response to the disappointing moment when a delayed strike was stopped by the opposition keeper Marko Dmitrovic.
“He missed his first chance, but he kept working, helping in defence with his speed, and the reward for his solidarity was the pass from De Jong that he converted into the final 4-1.”
They also brought to light that the miss meant Barca couldn’t breathe out until Lamine Yamal netted their third. Finally, saying the Englishman “redeemed himself.”
Football Espana, meanwhile, handed him a 6.5/10 rating, the same as teammate Frenkie De Jong. They said:
“Missed a sitter to make it 3-1, but made up for it in the closing stages with a fine volley.”
Even though Ferran Torres scored a brace in the 4-1 victory, Yamal grabbed the headlines. “Barcelona’s golden boy does it again,” they wrote, giving a 9/10.
Spanish outlet SPORT provided a somewhat different narrative, giving the winger 7/10. They only focused on the goal:
“He scored the fourth goal of the game after a magnificent pass from Frenkie de Jong, finishing the move with a truly world-class finish. With barely any angle, he delicately placed the ball with the inside of his foot, curling a perfect cross-shot across goal.”
AS mentions Flick’s unwillingness to rotate and refers to the miss as an “incredible” chance, before Rashford’s late goal.
“The gamble on Ferran Torres paid off perfectly; the Canary Islander’s lack of match fitness is still worrying. And Gavi’s inclusion in the starting lineup showed that the Andalusian has returned like a beast… He changed the team’s dynamic ahead of a Champions League match that won’t be won with football alone, but with character. And Gavi proved yesterday that he has more than enough.”
Rashford made his 42nd appearance of the season, taking his tally to 12 goals and 13 assists. But still it’s not certain that Barca will take up the £26m buy option in his loan deal.
Rashford’s United Chapter Ending
Nothing lasts forever, and that has exactly happened. INEOS are not expecting Rashford to return this summer as they plan to sell him. The Englishman moved to Spain on loan at the start of this season.
Rashford’s contract at Manchester United lasts until 2028. So if Barcelona plan to buy him, they must trigger their buy option as the Reds seem determined not to enter negotiations over a decreased fee.
With United’s new vision to become genuine title contenders, multiple changes are planned. Probably putting an end to Rashford’s chapter at Old Trafford would do both clubs justice. This would help the winger get a chance to redeem himself with the Spanish side, while United looks for other options.
