Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford endured a torrid evening as Barcelona crashed to a humiliating 3-0 defeat against Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday night. Goals from Estevao and Liam Delap, alongside a Jules Kounde own goal, sealed victory for the Blues at Stamford Bridge, whilst Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo saw red. Rashford, who has produced several standout displays since his temporary switch from Old Trafford, struggled to make his mark on proceedings.
The England international had missed the previous fixture against Athletic Club through illness, prompting manager Hansi Flick to name him among the substitutes for the opening 45 minutes. Ferran Torres' recent purple patch also influenced the tactical decision. Flick explained: "Ferran scored two goals on Saturday, and Marcus had been out for three or four days due to his injury, but he's ready to play at any moment."
When Rashford was introduced, Barcelona were already trailing and down to 10 men, making it virtually impossible for the 28-year-old to influence the contest.
Despite this, the Spanish media delivered their verdict on Rashford's showing against Chelsea.
MARCA - "Ferran comes on after the break. He tries to get Lewandowski running, but it doesn't work. Several defenders in blue close him down every time he touches the ball. The Englishman is having a tough time. Rated five."
SPORT - "He came on with one less player and couldn't act as an agitator. He was neither seen nor sacrificed in defence."
Mundo Deportivo - "Nothing like his previous visit to England, which resulted in two goals in Newcastle. He couldn't swim against the tide."
Flick is unlikely to be overly concerned by Rashford's contribution, considering the challenging circumstances and the German boss's evident admiration for the forward. "I'm really very happy [he is back]. We will decide tomorrow [Tuesday] if he plays from the beginning or if he comes in from the bench. But as I said, I'm happy to have him in our team," Flick said pre-match.
"Last time when we played Newcastle, I also said this. I have followed him, I think, his whole career. I was impressed about him, with his quality, what he is doing in the box, what he is doing in front of goal.
"He has also showed it in Barcelona, which is really good. But for him, this change to live in another culture. The people in Barcelona are fantastic, we have nice weather. For me, it's amazing.
"You can see now he is also smiling a lot, and if he can enjoy the atmosphere we have, it is also good for him."
His loan deal includes a £26million purchase clause and following an impressive start to the campaign, Barcelona are expected to pursue a permanent transfer.