After being sidelined at his longtime team Manchester United, Rashford made the move to Barcelona on a temporary deal and has thrived in Spain, recording six goals and nine assists across all competitions. ..Continue Reading
During Barcelona’s 4-2 triumph over Celta Vigo in La Liga on Sunday, Rashford contributed two assists as Robert Lewandowski delivered a vintage performance with a three-goal display.
Although Rashford missed a significant opportunity to double the lead, he assisted two of Lewandowski’s strikes and heads into the international break with England in high spirits.
Still, despite his strong performances, Flick and the coaching team at Barcelona are pushing Rashford to elevate his game further across multiple facets.
A detailed piece from SPORT outlines the expectations placed on Rashford, who Barcelona can acquire permanently for £26 million.
With Lamine Yamal granted more creative freedom on the right wing, the left-sided attacker is expected to show greater discipline in defensive responsibilities.
This hasn’t always been Rashford’s standout trait, but the coaching staff are working to reshape his approach with new routines to enhance his overall contribution.
As per the report, Barcelona want Rashford to “participate with high intensity in coordinated collective pressing” and “return quickly” to assist his full-back defensively.
Raphinha, who impressed last season, is anticipated to rejoin the squad after the international break and will challenge Rashford for a spot, though Rashford is also capable of playing centrally.
The coaching staff aim to maintain tactical consistency regardless of personnel, especially in synchronizing movements with the offensively inclined Alejandro Balde at left-back.
Barcelona’s victory, following Real Madrid’s goalless draw with Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, places them three points behind the current league leaders after 12 matches.
Flick expressed satisfaction with the result and the team’s second-half showing, which he sees as a promising sign ahead of future fixtures post-break.
“I appreciate a lot what I saw today,” Flick said.
“At the moment, it’s like, especially in the first half, we made some mistakes, more than in the second half, and they use it. Two mistakes for the goals.
“But what I saw, also in first half, we controlled the game. It was a really good match with the ball, and especially in the second half, we defend much better.
“I think the second half gives us confidence also for the next matches. This is what we need. When you can make pressure on the opponent it’s a good way. We did it. I like what I saw, especially in the second half.”
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