"True pleasure": Double-packer Rashford delighted with sponsor Flick
Marcus Rashford delivered his first stellar performance for FC Barcelona. The Englishman has long since settled into Catalonia – thanks in part to Hansi Flick.
One heart and one soul: Hansi Flick substitution of Marcus Rashford in the closing stages. IMAGO/NurPhoto
The first Champions League matchday, especially around the UK, provided several examples of just how international football has become. Liverpool FC, for the first time in their European history, started without an Englishman in their 3-2 victory against Atletico Madrid . FC Barcelona, on the other hand, started with Marcus Rashford – and then proceeded to blast away his own countrymen.
Both goals were scored by the 60-time capped Three Lions international, who is on loan to the Catalans from Manchester United. They were his first goals in his new kit; before that, Rashford had only scored in a friendly. "It was a great game and I'm very happy," said the 27-year-old. "For the header, I attack the space and focus on making contact with the ball to push it down. For the second goal, the technique was very good. It's all about having the courage to take the shot."
Finally in the favorite positionFor the first time, Rashford didn't start as a center forward; Robert Lewandowski took over this time. Instead, the new signing was allowed to play in his favorite position on the left wing, while Raphinha moved to the right in Lamine Yamal's absence. Rashford generally performed better there, although the position played a minor role, at least in his magnificent goals. Lewandowski was in close proximity for both goals.
Seasoned Newcastle fans weren't surprised that Rashford shone against the Magpies. The attacker has already scored five Premier League goals against Newcastle for Manchester United. The question is: Will there be more?
Flick praises Rashford, Rashford praises FlickThat also depends on whether Barcelona exercises the €30 million purchase option. One thing is clear: So far, Rashford has lived up to expectations, even though he is still goalless in the league. "He has shown that he is a great player," said Barca coach Flick, who described the striker as "extraordinary" and praised strengths such as speed and finishing. Flick was "not surprised" by Rashford's performance, as he has had the 27-year-old on his list for some time. He spoke with Rashford back in July and conveyed to him that he absolutely wanted the Englishman in his team.
Reciprocal appreciation. "I feel the trust the coach has in me. I already knew he was an excellent coach before I came here," said Rashford. Working together is now simply "a real pleasure." And so it certainly seems as if Rashford and FC Barcelona could still have a lot of fun together.
