Marcus Rashford has been on loan at Barcelona and made it count with some big performances, but Spanish media have been critical of the forward after his final game as the Catalans weigh up a £26m permanent move
Marcus Rashford has done everything possible to earn a permanent move to Barcelona following his final appearance on loan for the Catalan club.
The winger is poised for a return to Manchester United this summer after featuring in a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Valencia on Saturday. The decision now lies with Barca regarding whether they’ll stump up the £26million they’ve long recognised will be enough to sign Rashford on a permanent basis.
However, some harsh criticism of the 28-year-old’s contribution in a sluggish loss against Los Che suggested he’s still proving his value to some observers.
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Sport’s one-word verdict on Rashford’s performance at the Mestalla was “tough” as it handed him a six out of 10 rating.
But that was merely the start of the scrutiny as the Catalan publication proceeded to analyse what it considered a sluggish display from the winger, reports the Mirror.
“That’s the typical adjective used to describe someone who runs a lot but doesn’t finish anything,” read the remainder of his assessment. “At Barca, you have to demand more from a winger, beyond the Englishman’s extraordinary stats.”
Rashford completed 89 per cent of his passes against Valencia, the second-highest of any Barca starter not in defence. Nevertheless, he failed to register a shot at the Mestalla and managed just one dribble (one of only three Barca starters to do so).
Mundo Deportivo proved less harsh in its own assessment of what might turn out to be Rashford’s final appearance. Instead, improved reliability was demanded from the Englishman, whose showing was labelled “intermittent.”
The review went on: “Lacking consistency in his play, with moments of prominence thanks to his crosses into the box, and too many minutes spent missing.”
It’s worth noting it was merely a fortnight ago that Rashford struck a magnificent free-kick in El Clasico to help clinch the title. That effort against Real Madrid took his total to 14 goals and 14 assists during his loan stint at Barca.
Anticipating such moments week in, week out would be unrealistic and his figures undoubtedly speak for themselves. However, similar observations have occasionally applied at United in previous years as more reliable delivery of those occasional flashes of genius remains the ultimate objective.
The £26m permanent clause in Rashford’s contract has long been regarded by many as a bargain. And his displays in La Liga have only served to reinforce the conviction there is genuine value to be secured for the Catalans should they wish to pursue it.
However, Michael Carrick has reportedly expressed his eagerness to bring his former colleague back to Old Trafford this summer. And Barca’s loss could potentially turn out to be United’s gain, now that the Old Trafford legend has been officially appointed as permanent manager.