Marcus Rashford arrived at FC Barcelona with great expectations of becoming the new star of the attack, but after three days of the League, the English striker has not yet managed to leave a significant mark, which has generated doubts between fans and the press about his ability to adapt to the culé team. His performance, until now, has been far from expected, and the 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano on the third day of the League has evidenced the problems facing the former Manchester United player.
The match played in the early hours of September 1 at the Vallecas Stadium was a reflection of Barcelona’s difficulties to impose its game. Despite being the defending champions and having a template full of talent, the Catalans failed to overcome a combative and well -organized Vallecano ray. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring for Barcelona in the 40th minute with a well -executed penalty, but in 67, Perez matched the meeting for the premises. The result left Barcelona with a point that knows little, evidencing problems in the attack, where Rashford could not make a difference.
Admitted to the second half instead of Raphinha, Rashford had the mission of providing freshness and explosiveness to Blaugrana attack. However, in the almost 30 minutes that was in the field, its impact was practically null. According to statistics, he only touched the ball 15 times, completed 7 passes and achieved a successful dribbling. He did not shoot the arch or create opportunities for his teammates, which left Barcelona without the necessary spark to break the tie. The Goal page gave it a rating of just 5 points, a reflection of its disappointing performance.
After the first three days of the League, Rashford has not yet recorded goals or assists with the Barcelona shirt. In contrast, players such as Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Ferran Torres have already contributed directly to the goals of the team. This difference has generated criticism and has increased pressure on the English striker, who arrived at the club hoping to be a key reinforcement after passing through Manchester United.
During the preseason, Rashford showed flashes of its quality by scoring a goal and giving an assistance, which generated optimism about its adaptation. However, in the official season, where rivals are more organized and physically demanding, English has had problems finding its place in Hansi Flick scheme. His lack of connection with Barcelona’s game style, based on possession and high pressure, has been evident, and his performance has not met the expectations of a club that invested in him to reinforce his attack.
The arrival of Rashford to Barcelona not only sought to strengthen the lead, but also share offensive responsibility with young talents such as Yamal. However, its slow adaptation process has generated doubts about its ability to compete for a starting position in a team with so many offensive options. The English press has also expressed concern, wondering if Rashford can recover the level he showed at Manchester United, where he was a key figure with decisive goals.
Recently, the English coach Thomas Tuchel summoned Rashford for the next selection matches during the FIFA Days. This opportunity could be crucial for the striker to recover confidence and return to Barcelona with a better mood. If you manage to stand out with England, you could bring that impulse to the League. On the contrary, poor performance in the selection could aggravate their situation in the club, where both Flick and fans begin to get impatient.
The draw against Rayo Vallecano made it clear that Barcelona needs more consistency in his attack to stay in the fight for the title of the League. Hansi Flick, known for his tactical demand, expects Rashford to take a step forward, not only with goals, but also with greater involvement in the collective game and pressure on rival defenses. The German coach knows that Rashford’s potential is undeniable, but his adaptation to Barcelona’s style requires time and effort.
Rashford pressure is huge. Playing in Barcelona implies complying with an excellence standard, since fans are accustomed to legendary strikers such as Ronaldinho, Eto’o or Messi. Until now, Rashford has not lived up to those expectations, and his lack of impact has generated criticism. However, with only three disputed days, there is still time for English to demonstrate its value. The key will be in your capacity to adapt to the Flick system, improve your physical condition and be more effective in the area.
The international break will be an opportunity for Rashford to reflect and work in his trust. England has historically been an environment where the striker has shone, and a good performance with the selection could be the impulse he needs to change his dynamics in Barcelona. If you manage to mark or attend, you could return to the League with a renewed mentality.
Rashford’s case also shows the challenges facing many Premier League players when they reach the League. The difference in rhythm, tactics and style of play can be a significant obstacle, but with its experience and talent, Rashford has the tools to overcome it. Patience and hard work will be fundamental for you to find your place in the team.
For Barcelona, the challenge in the attack persists. Although Yamal is emerging as a star, and Raphinha and Torres have shown quality flashes, the team needs more options to hold a long season. Rashford, as one of the club’s bets, has the opportunity to become a key piece, but his future at Camp Nou will depend on his ability to overcome this complicated phase and demonstrate that he can be the striker that Barcelona expected.