Article by Alexandru Stanciu – published Monday, August 25, 2025, 13:52 / Updated Monday, August 25, 2025 13:53
Marcus Rashford's first appearance (27 years old) as a holder in the Barcelona shirt has aroused intense reactions and negative comments on social networks from Catalan fans. The Englishman was a holder in the match with Levante, but was changed at the break, when his team was led by 0-2. Later the team prepared by Hansi Flick (60) imposed with the score of 3-0.
The English striker had debuted for “Blaugrana” in the first stage of La Liga, entering the field for 20 minutes in the categorical victory, score 3-0, against those from Mallorca.
Marcus Rashford, harshly criticized by Barcelona fans after the first match as the holder
Rashford's performance in the match with Mallorca provided a place in the starting formula for confrontation with Levante. However, his performance did not satisfy Hansi Flick, who replaced at the break, at the 2-0 score for the hosts.
In the second half, Barcelona showed another face. Pedri reduced the difference in the 49th minute, Ferran Torres equalized in the 52nd minute, and in the extensions, the Catalans completed the return, thanks to an Elgezabal autogol, coming after an exceptional individual action of Yamal.
Despite the victory, the team fans expressed their dissatisfaction with Rashford's performance, with eloquent comments:
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“Rashford managed to bring the mentality from Manchester United to Barcelona”
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“Why should Rashford be a holder? He brought with him the defendant's mentality from United”
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“You can take Rashford from Manchester United, but you can't get United from Rashford.”
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“Marcus Rashford plays as if he were still at Manchester United. No football intelligence with the ball, he doesn't even know how to position himself. He doesn't train? Or he thinks the running is everything? Friend, play for Barcelona. Play smart!”
Marcus had a few opportunities on the first half and showed that he can help us, and we can build. In the second half I needed changes and I introduced Raphinha on the bands. I think were the correct movements. The first goal after the break changed the game.
– Hansi Flickabout Marcus Rashford
