Marcus Rashford scored his sixth goal for Barcelona in their 3-1 win over Elche on Sunday but the Manchester United loanee was still "not happy"
Marcus Rashford left winger of Barcelona and England and Adria Pedrosa left-back of Elche and Spain compete for the ball during the La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Elche
The Spanish media had a mixed reaction after Marcus Rashford's latest goal for Barcelona
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Barcelona recovered from El Clasico disappointment with a 3-1 triumph over Elche as Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford got back on the score sheet. The Catalan giants failed to beat Real Madrid last time out but Rashford once again had a key role to play in turning their fortunes around.
Days after celebrating his 28th birthday, Rashford capped off Barcelona's performance by netting their third goal, although certain Spanish media outlets remained critical of his display. And despite accumulating six goals and seven assists across 14 appearances under Hansi Flick this term, the United exile expressed dissatisfaction with his own showing.
"I try to give my best. I could have done better against Elche and I promise to improve because I'm not entirely happy with my performance overall," he said after the final whistle. "We work hard to win. We're taking it one game at a time. We need to keep playing as a team. This is Barca, and the demands must always be at their highest."
He continued: "Yes, it's a very, very important win. It's always important, after a defeat, to win the next match; that's the most important thing. Overall, I'm very happy today. Of course, confidence is essential in football, and the only way to build it is through hard work and winning matches."
The switch to Spain has naturally presented challenges for the England international, though a standing ovation upon his 74th-minute substitution indicated supporters are satisfied. Ex-Barcelona defender Lluis Carreras highlighted one particular element of Rashford's game where he feels improvement is still needed.
"I find it hard to believe; he has some issues, he plays in a position where he can't be perfect," he told Cadena Ser about Rashford's approach. "He can't receive the ball and pass it back immediately; he has to try things, and he's not sharp there."
Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo echoed more positive sentiments regarding Rashford's display. The publication branded Rashford an "asset" whilst offering greater analysis of his performance.
"Having secured a starting spot while awaiting further significant returns, the Englishman helped launch the counter-attack against Elche's daring tactical plan," read the review. "He was quite involved, experiencing both good and bad moments, until he sealed the victory with a stunning goal that showcased his best qualities."
Marcus Rashford of FC celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Elche
Rashford has six goals and seven assists in 14 games for Barca
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Meanwhile, Marca gave its own assessment of proceedings and emphasised Rashford's decisive contribution in wrapping up three points. Victory proved vital after dropping points against Real last time out, with the United loanee inspiring Flick's side to bounce back.
The report particularly highlighted the technicality of Rashford's finish and read: "Elche hit back with a goal by Rafa Mir in a 42nd-minute breakaway, but Rashford added to Barcelona's lead with a left-footed shot from a difficult angle in the 61st for his sixth goal of the season at his new club."
Hansi Flick, Manager of FC Barcelona talks with Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Rayo Vallecano de Madrid and FC Barcelona
Barca coach Hansi Flick was full of praise for his loanee
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Finally, Flick heaped praise upon his forward's contribution while noting the opportunities were there to do even more. Yet the manager's comments were generally positive.
"One or two more goals would have been good for him," said the Barcelona manager. "I'm happy with him; I know he can play at this level and he's shown it. He's an important player."
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