Marcus Rashford’s response to being dropped from the starting lineup for the Barcelona team demonstrates his strong mentality and commitment to the club, according to his coach Hansi Flick.
After sitting out four matches, Rashford, 28, returned to the starting XI in last weekend’s thrilling 5-3 victory over Real Betis. However, he found himself back on the bench for the midweek 2-1 win in the Champions League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Flick praised Rashford’s attitude when he was named a substitute during the match against Eintracht, commending him for coming off the bench to assist Jules Koundé for the equalizer.
“Having him on the bench highlights the quality of our squad,” Flick stated ahead of the upcoming LaLiga match against Osasuna, reflecting on Rashford’s recent roles.
“We have excellent players in this position. He is a true professional with a fantastic mentality. At first, he needed time to adjust, but he is now performing at his best.”
“I communicate with players who aren’t in the lineup and explain my decisions. What he told me recently was, ‘Boss, there’s no need for that. It’s all about the team and securing three points, nothing else matters.’”
“That’s the right mentality. His attitude is fantastic, and I’m really pleased to have him here.”
This season, Rashford—who is on a loan from Manchester United—has netted six goals and provided 11 assists in 21 appearances for Barcelona. Before the November international break, he had made 10 consecutive starts for the LaLiga leaders, but his playing time has decreased since Raphinha returned to full fitness.
Flick is also facing a selection dilemma in the striker position, with Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski in competition for the No. 9 role. So far this season, Torres has scored 13 goals in 20 games while Lewandowski has added eight goals in 17 games. Flick noted that the healthy competition is pushing them to perform at their best.
“Competition raises the performance level for all players, particularly with Ferran and Lewy vying for the same spot,” the German coach remarked. “It’s beneficial for the team and for them to play at their highest potential. What I’ve witnessed over the last five weeks has been remarkable from both.”
Despite the return of Marc-André ter Stegen from injury, Flick confirmed that Joan García, a €25 million ($29 million) signing from Espanyol, remains the first-choice goalkeeper. “Joan is our number one, and there’s no thought of changing that. He’s been outstanding,” Flick stated.
With Wojciech Szczesny currently the established backup, Ter Stegen’s situation is complicated as he aims to secure his place as Germany’s No. 1 for next summer’s World Cup. Reports indicate he may have to leave in January, whether on loan or permanently, and Flick has confirmed that he has discussed the player’s future with him.
“Of course I talk with him; it’s my responsibility to communicate with the players, but the details remain between us,” he added.
Barcelona faces Osasuna on Saturday at Spotify Camp Nou, with a chance to extend their lead to seven points over Real Madrid, who will play Alavés on Sunday, if they secure their seventh straight win following their October loss to Los Blancos in the Clásico.