A bright start to Marcus Rashford's Barcelona career hasn't quelled doubt about his future
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona looks on during the Spanish La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou stadium
Marcus Rashford impressed for Barcelona despite starting the match on the bench
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Marcus Rashford provided a much-needed boost off the bench for Barcelona in their 3-1 victory against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. The win at the Camp Nou increased the La Liga leaders' gap over Real Madrid to four points.
Starting the game on the bench following the recent return of Raphinha on the left flank, he entered proceedings in the 67th minute with Barca 2-1 up while Diego Simeone's side were looking for an equaliser.
However, his entrance on the pitch, alongside Ferran Torres, gave Hansi Flick some x-factor in the final third and it was the Spanish substitute that netted the third and final goal of the match in the 96th minute.
It may have been the fourth game in a row across all competitions that the England star has failed to register a goal or an assist but his contribution on Tuesday was a positive one, as highlighted by portions of the Spanish press.
Sport praised his immediate impact and the issues he caused the Atletico defence in the 24 minutes he was on the pitch. They called his performance "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."
It was a sentiment echoed by Mundo Deportivo who complimented his talents on the counter-attack thanks to his impressive pace, where he almost found himself on the scoresheet for what would have been his third league goal of the campaign.
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 had a 24-minute cameo in Barcelona's 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid
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The publication wrote: "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."
Despite the positive performances Rashford has put in for Barcelona, doubts have emerged on whether his stay in Spain will continue beyond his season-long loan. Upon his arrival at Barca this past summer, the club have an option to sign the Englishman permanently for £26million.
He's established himself as a regular contributor with six goals and nine assists in his first 19 games in all competitions. According to Spanish outlet Sport, even with his output, worries remain inside the club regarding the 28-year-old's high salary.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona jogs during the Spanish La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou stadium
The Englishman hasn't scored or assisted in his last four games across all competitions
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Rashford did take a 25% pay cut to join the Spanish giants with his weekly wages now sitting at £240k, which Barca are covering entirely. The England forward's tactical adaption is also reportedly a cause for concern with Rashford said to be offering little when it comes to high pressing, a key signifier of any Hansi Flick team.
The report also adds that the club's future transfer plans will be to find cover for Brazilian winger Raphinha with United hoping a decision is made on Rashford's uncertain future soon.
Should the Manchester-born winger make a return to Old Trafford next summer, he'll likely be sent out on loan for a third consecutive time or be sold due to Ruben Amorim not wanting him in his long-term plans at the club.