Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed confidence that Marcus Rashford has the potential to increase his goal tally after the English striker found the net for the sixth time this season during the club’s 3-1 victory against Elche on Sunday.
Rashford scored Barcelona’s third goal, finishing after receiving a pass from Fermín López.
“Considering the opportunities he has, one or two more goals would certainly benefit him,” Flick remarked at a press conference when asked about areas where the on-loan Manchester United forward could improve.
“But we are pleased with his performance, and I’m delighted with him. He can perform at this level, and I’m glad to see him doing so for the fans, the club, and his teammates; he is a key player.”
At 28, Rashford has recorded 12 goal contributions in 14 matches for Barcelona, leading the team’s stats this season.
However, he believes his decision-making against Elche hindered him from adding to his goal and assist count.
“I strive to make the right decisions during the match,” Rashford informed reporters. “Even today, I could have secured more assists or goals; at times, my choice to shoot or pass wasn’t the best. But days like this happen. The team’s success is what’s most important, and today we secured a win, which makes me happy.”
“My focus isn’t just on numbers; as long as I’m making the right plays, I know I can always contribute goals and assists. My priority is building relationships within the team and gaining comfort on the pitch.”
Earlier in the match, Barça took a commanding lead with goals from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, before Rafa Mir netted one for the visitors.
Yamal’s goal came as he manages a groin issue, something Flick emphasized is not a condition that can be remedied overnight.
“He has to learn how to cope with and manage his injury,” the Barça coach said. “He’s applying a lot of discipline and doing well, but he needs to continue with training, treatment, and other steps. It’s a positive move forward, but I can’t say it’s completely resolved. He’ll need to manage it continually.”
This win was critical for Barcelona as they rebounded from last week’s loss to Real Madrid, keeping them within five points of their rivals at the top of the table.
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Flick noted several positive elements of his team’s performance but acknowledged that improvements are essential ahead of their upcoming away matches against Club Brugge and Celta Vigo this week.
“I observed many positive aspects in our play, but there are still areas that need attention,” he added. “Today’s opponent had a strong preference for possession, which made it challenging. We aimed to press early, which we accomplished, leading to important goals. However, we missed some crucial opportunities. There’s still plenty of room for improvement.”
“We’ll address these issues and continue progressing. Today’s three points boost our confidence, and we look forward to our next two matches before the November international break; our goal is to win them, starting Wednesday in the Champions League against Brugge.”