Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has been impressing in La Liga for Barcelona
Marcus Rashford claps the fans
Marcus Rashford's Barcelona career beyond his loan is uncertain(Image: (Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images))
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Marcus Rashford gave Barcelona a much-needed lift from the bench in their 3-1 triumph over Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. The victory at Camp Nou extended the La Liga leaders' advantage over Real Madrid to four points.
Rashford started the match on the sidelines due to the recent return of Raphinha on the left wing, but he was brought into the fray in the 67th minute with Barca leading 2-1 and Diego Simeone's side seeking an equaliser.
His introduction, along with Ferran Torres, added some spark to Hansi Flick's attack, and it was the Spanish substitute who scored the third and final goal of the match in the 96th minute.
Despite this being the fourth consecutive match in all competitions where the England star hasn't scored or assisted, his contribution on Tuesday was positively received, as noted by sections of the Spanish media.
Sport lauded his immediate impact and the problems he posed for the Atletico defence during his 24-minute stint on the pitch. They described his performance as "stinging" and summarised: "He came on and quickly began causing problems for Atlético from the left wing. He came close to scoring and provided a much-needed boost for Barca in the final minutes."
Mundo Deportivo echoed these sentiments, praising his counter-attacking abilities thanks to his impressive speed, which nearly saw him add to his tally of two league goals this season.
The publication stated: "He breaks free on the counter-attack after a pass from Casado and shoots after a cutback, but Oblak deflects it with his foot. Great play by the Englishman."
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Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona shoots during the Spanish La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou stadium
Marcus Rashford enjoyed a positive cameo against Atletico Madrid(Image: Europa Press via Getty Images)
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Despite Rashford's impressive showings for Barcelona, questions have arisen over whether his spell in Spain will extend beyond his season-long loan. When he joined Barca this past summer, the club secured an option to make the Englishman's move permanent for £26million.
He's become a consistent performer with six goals and nine assists in his opening 19 appearances across all competitions. However, according to Spanish publication Sport, concerns persist within the club about the 28-year-old's substantial wages, despite his contributions.
Rashford accepted a 25% wage reduction to join the Catalan giants, with his weekly earnings now standing at £240k, which Barca are paying in full. The England international's tactical adjustment is also reportedly causing unease, with Rashford said to be contributing little in terms of high pressing, a fundamental characteristic of any Hansi Flick side.
Marcus Rashford looks on
The Englishman's future beyond this season is not yet known
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The report further suggests that the club's future transfer strategy will focus on finding backup for Raphinha, with United hoping a verdict on Rashford's uncertain future arrives soon.
If the Manchester-born winger returns to Old Trafford next summer, he may be loaned out for a third successive season or sold, as Ruben Amorim doesn't view him as part of his long-term vision for the club.