Several high-profile figures have praised Marcus Rashford’s impressive performances since his loan move to Barcelona FC from Manchester United this summer. He found himself out of favour at Old Trafford last season, leading to a loan spell at Aston Villa for the second half of the campaign. The striker’s future was a hot topic over the summer, with Barcelona ultimately securing his services.
Rashford has thrived in Catalonia, contributing eight goals in his last seven matches, including a goal in the recent 4-1 loss to Sevilla. The verdict has been unanimous, with many football figures and pundits in agreement regarding his impressive form. Gary Lineker, who played for Barcelona during his career, lauded Rashford’s start at the club on the latest episode of the Rest is Football podcast.
He said: “I’m pleased for Marcus [Rashford], I don’t think he could’ve had a much better start. I mean, admittedly, they lost this particular game, but through no fault of his, in fact, I think he was probably their best player.”
While discussing Lewandowski’s penalty miss, Lineker added: “It’s funny, I was at home and thinking [they should have] let Marcus take it [the penalty], he’s a brilliant penalty taker.
“Obviously, Lewandowski has taken them and I always knew he would take it, but I had a feeling and then he hit it wide.
“Marcus will be champing at the bit to get that gig, but I don’t think he’ll get it while Lewandowski is there because strikers, however many they miss, unless they miss possibly two on the bounce, they tend to keep taking them.”
Following his switch to the La Liga heavyweights, numerous Barcelona players have heaped praise on Rashford.
After netting twice against Newcastle United in the Champions League, manager Hansi Flick commented: “The important thing is that he gains confidence, and scoring two goals in this stadium, in his home country, will help him.
“We’re helping him. But I’m not surprised. He’s an outstanding player, with great talent, as I said. His finishing is fantastic. We need a player like him.”
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo added: “Marcus is spectacular. He does the same thing in training. We’re very happy to have him with us, because he has a lot of quality and will help us a lot.
Joan Garcia, the goalkeeper, said: “It was incredible. He’s already got us used to it in training. He has a very good shot and I’m very happy for him because he’s working hard and he’s working well.”