Marcus Rashford scored his first goal for Barcelona on Monday (Image: Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford has netted his first goal for Barcelona in a pre-season friendly against Daegu FC, following his loan move from Manchester United to the Nou Camp. The reigning La Liga champions will be covering the bill for Rashford's wages during his time at Camp Nou, a decision that is projected to save United approximately £12million. The Catalonian club also holds the option to make his transfer permanent for a sum of £26m.
Rashford's return to Carrington for pre-season training was postponed by United last month as they removed him from his iconic No. 10 shirt. However, he has now achieved his dream move to Barcelona, after spending the latter part of the 2024/2025 season on loan at Aston Villa. The 27-year-old has now scored his first goal for Hansi Flick's team in pre-season. Rashford found the back of the net in the second half against Daegu, slotting in an Eric Garcia cutback to add a fifth for Barca against the struggling South Korean side.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta couldn't help but beam at the sight of his new signing scoring, even if it was only a pre-season friendly. And he's clearly delighted to have the former United academy talent on board for the Blaugrana.
However, Barcelona legend Rivaldo has stated that Rashford is unlikely to start ahead of Raphinha, who managed an impressive 34 goals under Hansi Flick last term.
"I think that's highly unlikely that Rashford will take Raphinha's spot, especially after the season Raphinha had last year. In my view, Raphinha is currently among the top five players in the world," he shared with Betfair.
Marcus Rashford celebrates scoring his side’s fifth goal (Image: Han Myung-Gu, Getty Images)
"Right now, he's an undisputed starter at Barça and already a club icon. Everyone, the players, the coaching staff, the whole club rates him very highly.
"What he did last season was outstanding, so without a doubt, that position is his. Of course, it's always good to have top-quality players around you. So yes, there will be competition, but I don't think Rashford is going to take Raphinha's place.
"Other opportunities will arise, and with training, the manager will likely find a way to fit them both into the team. But for me, Raphinha is a nailed-on starter. I don't see any chance of him being dropped from Barça's starting line-up."