Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford made his first appearance for Barcelona in a pre-season friendly against Vissel Kobe, but his debut was cut short after just 33 minutes. Despite the brief outing, the England international remained upbeat, focusing on the positives of his first runout in Blaugrana colors.
Rashford’s Short but Impactful Cameo
Initially named on the bench by manager Hansi Flick, Rashford was introduced at halftime as part of a full-team rotation. In his limited time on the pitch, the forward made an immediate impact, assisting Roony Bardghji in Barcelona’s 3-1 victory. However, just over half an hour later, he and defender Jofre Torrents were substituted off for Gerard Martín and Pedro Fernández.
Speaking after the match, Rashford expressed his satisfaction with the performance:
“I feel very good—it was a solid performance, and it was amazing to play in front of the fans. It was also a good test for my fitness. I’m looking forward to the upcoming matches. Adapting to the team’s style and delivering good football is key, and I think we did well in both halves.”
Competition for Places at Barcelona
With established stars like Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski in the squad, Rashford faces stiff competition for a starting role. When asked about his preferred position, he remained flexible:
“I believe Hansi Flick can bring out the best in me. I’ll play wherever the team needs me—whether it’s scoring goals or creating chances, I’m ready to contribute.”
Barcelona’s Pre-Season Preparations
The match against Vissel Kobe was part of Barcelona’s pre-season tour, with the club aiming to fine-tune tactics ahead of the new campaign. Rashford’s loan move has generated significant interest, and fans will be eager to see if he can secure a more prominent role as the season progresses.
For more updates on Barcelona’s pre-season fixtures and player performances, check out ESPN FC’s coverage or Marca’s latest reports.
What’s Next for Rashford?
While his debut was brief, Rashford’s adaptability and positive attitude could prove crucial as Barcelona prepares for a demanding season. With more friendlies lined up, the 26-year-old will have further opportunities to impress Flick and stake his claim for a regular spot.
Stay tuned for more updates on Rashford’s journey with Barcelona by following The Athletic’s transfer news or Sky Sports’ La Liga updates.
