The Manchester United forward, currently on loan at Barça, was handed a starting role by new manager Hansi Flick in the pre-season fixture. ..Continue Reading
Barcelona dominated early, netting four times before the interval, though Rashford wasn’t among the scorers.
Just before half-time, Rashford carved out a brilliant chance — collecting the ball, rounding goalkeeper Jean Butez, and wrong-footing a defender — only to send his shot wide with the net completely unguarded.
The miss left fans and teammates stunned, with Rashford visibly frustrated and several Barcelona players reacting in disbelief.
Up until that moment, the 27-year-old had been lively, even assisting Raphinha for one of the goals in what was otherwise a commanding performance at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
Rashford is hoping to reignite his career in Spain after falling out of favor under Ruben Amorim at Manchester United. He spent the latter half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, scoring four goals in 17 appearances.
Former United star Owen Hargreaves has voiced support for Rashford’s move, believing Barcelona could provide the ideal setting for him to rediscover his best form.
Earlier this month, Hargreaves told TNT Sports: “I think he’ll do great. He’s got one of the best managers in the world in Hansi Flick and he plays super attacking football. He’s got an amazing intelligence as a manager.
“He understands the games, [his] players are very close to him. I’ve spoken to players about him. They say that he’s the best manager they’ve ever had.
“Not [just] in terms of tactics, in terms of scoring goals and playing that high line, but also just the way he talks to his players, the confidence he gives them. Marcus, talent-wise, is very unique, but obviously his confidence has been hit.
“To go there and play under a manager that trusts you, he really wanted him. I think it’s going to be a great opportunity for him to go into a place where the culture’s going to be really good, which he hasn’t had at Manchester United.”
