Assist king Rashford receives another tribute, Barcelona abandons early buyout option! Manchester United expected to earn 30 million

On Sunday, Barcelona beat Celta Vigo 4-2, with Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, once again shining as a key player. While Lewandowski grabbed the spotlight with a hat-trick, Rashford's two assists were just as notable. He now shares the top spot for assists in La Liga and was applauded standing by Barcelona supporters at Balaídos.

Rashford not only delivered two precise passes to help Lewandowski complete his hat-trick, but another of his crosses was poorly cleared by the opposition, allowing Yamal to score another goal. He was involved in three of the team’s four goals. This victory reduced Hans Flick’s team’s gap to Real Madrid to just three points, solidifying his status as one of the most influential players this season.

Rashford now has six La Liga assists, surpassing teammate Yamal’s four, and shares the top spot with Getafe’s Mira. When he was substituted, he received applause for the second consecutive match, with Barcelona fans traveling away standing and chanting his name.

Of course, Rashford is not yet perfect. The left flank he forms with Alejandro Balde has defensive vulnerabilities. Before the game, Flick admitted there are tactical flaws to address, especially during high pressing, where gaps often appear. Rashford is stronger in attack than defense and is reluctant to track back, just as he was at Manchester United.

Flick’s coaching staff has been closely analyzing this issue. Compared to Brazilian winger Raphinha, Rashford’s defensive awareness is noticeably weaker. Raphinha not only attacks with intensity but also tirelessly runs, playing a crucial role in maintaining Barcelona’s formation.

Last season, Raphinha scored 34 goals and demonstrated relentless pressing, abundant energy, and the ability to motivate teammates. Without him, Barcelona’s balance in attack and defense suffers. Rashford still needs to improve his awareness and commitment to reach a similar level. According to Spain’s Diario Sport, once Raphinha recovers from injury, Rashford will be regarded as Barcelona’s “super substitute.”

Many Manchester United fans joke that once Rashford makes a permanent move, Barcelona will see his true nature. Barcelona also seems well aware of Rashford’s mindset; reports say they have abandoned the plan to buy him early in January, hoping the 28-year-old English winger will maintain his fighting spirit. Not buying early and positioning him as a super substitute shows Barcelona fully understands how to use Rashford!

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco clearly stated that they will not activate the buyout clause in January, partly due to the club’s not-so-optimistic financial situation.

Deco explained: “Unless something major happens, I don’t think it’s necessary to activate the buyout clause. We are very aware of the areas we need to improve and the challenges we face. Barcelona also went through tough times last season, but we eventually overcame them. When we reduce our match intensity, performance suffers. The team needs its best players, no excuses, but sometimes injuries prevent us from making changes and affect the midfield. Even when we win, there are still areas to improve.”

However, Manchester United remains optimistic, believing that based on Rashford’s current form, Barcelona will definitely pay €30 million to secure his transfer. According to the loan agreement, if Rashford continues to perform well after a permanent move and meets certain criteria, the Red Devils can receive an additional €5 million in bonuses.

Rashford is a product of Manchester United’s youth academy, so any transfer fee is pure profit for the club. Moreover, selling him would save United up to £325,000 per week in wages.