How Rashford can solve problems for Barça

Rashford is again being linked to Barcelona with a potential move before next season. Barça was rumoured to be interested in the English forward in January. Although it may not seem like a flashy signing, Rashford can solve many problems for Hansi Flick in the next season. Marcus Rashford does not seem to be part of Ruben Amorim’s plans, and the forward himself has admitted he is looking for opportunities elsewhere. “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps. When I leave, it’s going to be ‘no hard feelings’. You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person. Rashford’s arrival can provide Hansi Flick with depth on a low budget.

A risk-free solution for Barça’s squad depth problem

You might argue that he is not good enough for Barça, but let’s be honest, which player has succeeded lately at Manchester United that is world-class outside of it? Take Jaden Sancho as an example, who was struggling for United but enjoyed success on loan with Dortmund and now Chelsea. If not a signing, Rashford can be brought on loan instead to test him out first.

Jaden Sancho
Jaden Sancho crowned MOTM in a UCL game (sports Brief)

A pure left-winger

Raphinha remains the only left-winger in the squad with the quality to start week in, week out. The Brazilian does not function as a pure winger in Flick’s Barcelona but rather as an inside forward. This means that Alejandro Balde becomes isolated on the left flank, where he has to defend and attack. The youngster has done his job well this season, but a little help can increase his performance even more. The first La Liga game against AtlĂ©tico is an example of how this can become a weakness. The presence of a pure winger like Rashford can allow Balde to overlap and underlap, making Barça more effective in attack.

Balde
Balde on the ball for Barça in UCL (FC Barcelona)

Room for forwards to rest

Rashford’s arrival will allow players to take rest during busy scheduled weeks, where they can focus on the important games. Raphinha or Yamal can rest during La Liga games that come between the 2 legs of the UCL knockout. This will also allow players to avoid injuries due to overloads.

Lamine Yamal injury
An injured Lamine Yamal awaits doctors (beIN SPORTS)

Rashford is a top player despite his struggles at Manchester United, and the English forward proved it on the biggest stage. Rashford has been putting up promising performances on loan with Aston Villa. Although a lot of players like Lookman, Nico Williams, and Rafael Leao are ahead in priority for the Barça board. Rashford still remains an option to add quality squad depth for Hansi Flick’s side.

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