The England international appears poised to play a consistent role in Hansi Flick’s plans this season, offering depth and versatility on the left flank. ..Continue Reading
However, Rashford must navigate Flick’s famously disciplined system, which operates under a strict set of ten core principles.
His chances of securing a permanent transfer hinge on whether he can adjust his mentality and elevate his professionalism—potentially closing the chapter on his turbulent spell at Old Trafford.
At 27, Rashford is eager to revive a career that once held immense promise after his breakout from Manchester United’s academy.
Under new manager Ruben Amorim, doubts about his attitude and commitment led to his swift exclusion from the squad.
In contrast, the atmosphere in Barcelona is far more encouraging—fans have welcomed him warmly, and his performance in the first half has sparked hope that Spain could be the setting for his resurgence.
Though he was taken off at halftime with Barça trailing, it would be premature to assume he underperformed.
A deeper dive into his metrics and the tactical context suggests Flick’s substitution was strategic rather than a reflection of Rashford’s individual display.
“With two key passes and a 100% pass completion rate in just 45 minutes, Flick will be satisfied with Rashford’s performance,” wrote Barca Universal, who gave him a 6.5/10 on his first full La Liga start.
Observers pointed out that although he approached defenders boldly and showed attacking intent, his final execution lacked precision, and he seemed hesitant or underdeveloped when it came to taking shots on goal.
Flick himself also struck a positive tone after the match, as he told reporters (watch Rashford’s highlights below): “I think Rashford proved that he has the potential to help us a lot.”
Semprebarca also scored Rashford’s first-half a 6.5/10, writing: “Had a few promising moments, but was one of the first players to be substituted.”
Meanwhile, Football Espana, who wrote: “After a bright and bustling first start as a Barcelona player in La Liga, he did not have the impacted expected, and faded as the game wore on” gave him a slightly better 7/10.
The reaction from his new fans was equally optimistic. One X user commented: “I was very impressed with Rashford.
“Subbed off at half-time, but he was one of our standout players. Particularly loved his connection with Balde and how associative he was. Anyone “hating” quite clearly didn’t watch the game,” while a second continued:
“Everyone trying to disrespect this performance do not have any understanding of football whatsoever. Look at the state of that low block, adjusting to that will take a minute.”
“He was fine,” another user remarked, “looked fresh and dynamic with the ball. His movements were good. For the player he is, I expect him to be a big weapon in big/knockout games if he somehow gets back to his best physically. From that perspective, he was good and promising.”
Someone else put it plainly, writing: “He had a decent half,” as a fifth wrote: “When he starts banging in those goals, people will be more appreciative – and I know it’s just only a matter of time for that to start happening.”
Elsewhere, a sixth concluded: “He was excellent except for that one pass that nearly lead to a Levante counter.
“Saying anything else is just piling on for the sake of it. Of course Flick hooked him because he’s inexperienced in La Liga, but he showed nothing but positive signs. He’ll come good, no need to overreact.”
