Marcus Rashford critics will feel vindicated after Man United loanee punished by Barcelona
Barcelona star Marcus Rashford has generated negative headlines in Spain just three days after his Champions League heroics.
On Thursday, 18 September, Rashford’s brace inspired Barcelona to a 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
The England international’s performance against Newcastle was painful viewing for Manchester United fans, after their club let the 27-year-old join the La Liga giants on loan.
Some Man United supporters revealed they were ashamed to see Rashford impress since departing Old Trafford.
Marcus Rashford dropped by Barcelona for turning up late to training
After Barcelona’s victory over Newcastle, Rashford said he wants to stay at Barcelona for as long as possible.
However, Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo revealed on Sunday, 21 September, that the winger was omitted from Hansi Flick’s starting lineup for the La Liga clash with Getafe as a punishment for turning up to training late.
Rashford was previously criticised by Man United fans for his attitude, and those critics should now feel vindicated by his latest Barcelona exploits.
Marcus Rashford cannot afford further slip-ups
Similarly to when he joined Aston Villa on loan from the Red Devils last term, Rashford has been given a major confidence boost since transferring to Barcelona.
| Marcus Rashford stats | All competitions 2025/26 |
| Appearances | 5 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
The England man has scored two goals and produced one assist in five appearances for Flick’s side, which is the sort of form he failed to hit in recent seasons at Old Trafford.
If Rashford continues performing well for Barcelona, he will give himself every chance of making a permanent transfer to the Spanish giants and resurrecting the rest of his career, having been deemed surplus to requirements at Man United.
Therefore, the former Villa ace must not persistently create issues with Flick and must ensure that his recent lateness was a one-off event.
The forward’s recent form at Barcelona saw him called up to Thomas Tuchel’s last England squad, and he made the most of his opportunity by scoring in the heavy win over Serbia.