Marcus Rashford is earning plaudits for his performances this season for Barcelona, but a familiar issue seems to be emerging among his critics, something Man Utd are all too familiar with.
Since Barcelona held only an option to buy instead of an obligation, Marcus Rashford knew he had to make himself undeniable to stay there.
He’s done a good job of it so far with some sparkling performances in the league and the Champions League.
mail iconJoin our newsletter for news & smart analysis.
There has been the odd poor game, like in El Clásico, but he has largely impressed people in Spain. Except now, a familiar issue seems to be cropping up.
Marcus Rashford reacts as Barcelona lose to Real Madrid.
Photo by Mateo Villalba/Getty Images
Marcus Rashford accused of ‘neglecting tactical duties’
For all his talent on the ball and his ability to conjure up the most magical moment out of nowhere, one criticism followed Rashford even at his peak.
Even when he scored 30 goals in all competitions during Erik ten Hag’s debut season, there were doubts over his defensive commitment.
He needed to be a “free spirit” on the pitch for whom running back to defend was a luxury he would do when he felt like it, instead of a demanding non-negotiable.
What do you think is Marcus Rashford’s legacy at Man Utd?
More United News
Rashford leads the assist charts in Barcelona now, but his critics have picked up on that problem happening in Catalonia as well.
Spanish outlet AS wrote, “He’s also fighting off his critics, who see him as a player with tactical shortcomings, one who abandons his pressing game and neglects his tactical duties. In short, they see him as simply playing his own game.
“The former Manchester United player was clearly shaken after the match in Bruges, where he was ineffective in individual situations and, alongside Balde, left a wide-open space on the right flank for Forbs.
“Raphinha’s return will place Rashford in a new role, that of likely substitute. It remains to be seen how he adapts.”
Rashford needs to be near-perfect for Barcelona
For a player who is scoring and assisting for fun, criticism like this can sting, especially in Rashford’s case who is pretty sensitive to what’s written about him.
The reality is that he’s fighting off his past and the baggage he put on himself at Old Trafford, because body language can’t be faked.
His legacy at Man Utd divides opinion, with some saying he gave up on the club, and that’s a reputation he needs to shed at Barcelona.
He needs to be near-perfect for them to stand a chance of staying there beyond the season on a permanent deal, because United won’t entertain another loan move next summer.
Just goals and assists are not enough, and if Rashford thought the pressure at Man Utd was too much, then he’ll be in for a reality check at Barcelona.