Marcus Rashford’s move from Manchester United to Barcelona has provoked huge interest, with fans and media across the UK fascinated to see whether the forward can reignite a stalled career that once looked so promising.
And there’s a similar level of intrigue on the shores of the Mediterranean, with Barca fans anxious to see what kind of player is arriving in the Catalan capital.
To gauge the mood, BBC Sport has spoken to three Barcelona-based journalists and asked for their views on the England international’s arrival.
Here are the thoughts of Jamie Easton Gombau (La Liga TV presenter), Jordi Pons (Spanish TV commentator) and Toni Padilla (journalist for local newspaper Ara).
Barca’s forward line is already well stocked, with veteran marksman Robert Lewandowski, teen sensation Lamine Yamal and rejuvenated Raphinha all coming off brilliant seasons, while further depth comes from Spain internationals Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres. So where does Rashford fit in?
Jamie Easton Gombau: We know from Deco, Barca’s sporting director, that they wanted another winger – partly to rest Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, and also to play Raphinha in a different role as a number 10. But Rashford is a joker in the pack because he can also fit as a false nine or striker, which will be even more important this season to give some rest to Lewandowski, considering his age.
Luis Diaz and Nico Williams were the first choices, so Rashford was option C… at least! He’s also the cheapest option which is important because Barca’s financial situation is a long way from being solved.
Toni Padilla: Barca wanted someone who can play mostly on the left side, but also as a striker. Barca’s first idea was to have a younger player, like Williams, but Rashford is still young enough. From a tactical point of view, considering Rashford’s evolution in the last few years, it fits perfectly. But we should remember he’s only here because Nico said no.
Jordi Pons: I remember when Rashford was young and promised so much. He beat defenders, ran up and down the wing, and above all I liked his shot from mid-range.
Sometimes players can lose their way, but I see someone who is willing to drop his salary and try to re-establish himself in a team like Barca. A few years ago, everyone was talking about how great he was, and what a huge career he was going to have. Now he’s got a big opportunity ahead of him to return to that world-class level.
Rashford becomes the first Englishman to represent Barcelona since Gary Lineker left in 1989, and he will look to emulate the success of his predecessor who scored 52 goals in 138 appearances. But does his nationality matter to Barca followers? BBC Sport
