Marcus Rashford, a Manchester United outcast, earned his first start in La Liga on Saturday evening, helping Barcelona come from behind twice to defeat Levante 3-2 away. The Englishman is expected to be a regular in Hansi Flick’s squads this season, as he provides vital depth on the left wing.
Now 27, he is desperate to restart a career that once promised stardom after graduating as one of Carrington’s top students. Under new United manager Ruben Amorim, worries about his temperament and work rate caused him to fall out of favor. In Barcelona, however, the mood is significantly more upbeat; fans have embraced him, and his most recent 45-minute performance has already fueled hopes that a fresh start in Spain may finally reveal the player he was born to be.
What The Media Has Said About Rashford’s Levante Performance
The fact that Rashford was replaced at halftime with Barcelona losing by two goals may lead some to believe he failed to make an effect. However, a closer look at his statistics – and the reactions of those watching – indicate that Flick’s choice was tactical rather than performance-related.
“With two key passes and a 100% pass completion rate in just 45 minutes, Flick will be satisfied with Rashford’s performance,” stated Barca Universal, who rated him 6.5/10 in his first complete La Liga start. They noticed that, while he faced defenders with confidence, his final product is still lacking, and his drive to shoot requires improvement. Flick maintained an optimistic tone after the victory, telling reporters (see Rashford’s highlights below):
“I think Rashford proved that he has the potential to help us a lot.”
Semprebarca likewise rated Rashford’s first-half performance 6.5/10, stating, “Had a few promising moments, but was one of the first players to be substituted.” Meanwhile, Football Espana gave him a slightly higher 7/10, writing, “After a bright and bustling first start as a Barcelona player in La Liga, he did not have the impact expected, and faded as the game wore on.”
What Barcelona Fans Are Saying Following Rashford’s First La Liga Start
His new supporters responded well as well. One X user wrote: “I was quite impressed by Rashford. He was substituted at halftime, yet he was one of our best players. I particularly enjoyed his connection with Balde and his associative nature. Anyone “hating” plainly didn’t see the game,” while another added:
“Everyone who is criticizing this performance does not understand football. Look at the condition of that low block; adapting to it will take a minute.”
“He was fine,” another user said, “he looked young and lively with the ball. His motions were good. For the player he is, I expect him to be a formidable force in big/knockout games if he can regain his physical form. From that standpoint, he seemed good and potential.”
Someone else put it simply, saying, “He had a decent half,” while a fifth said, “When he starts banging in those goals, people will be more appreciative – and I know it’s only a matter of time before that happens.” A sixth concluded: “He was great except for that one pass that almost resulted in a Levante counter.
“To say anything else is simply heaping on. Of course, Flick snagged him since he was inexperienced in La Liga, but he demonstrated nothing but excellent results. There is no need to overreact; he will come good.”
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