Why Did Barcelona Sign Marcus Rashford on Loan?

A smart gamble or another risky revival?

After failing to land Nico Williams, Barcelona made a surprise move by signing Marcus Rashford on a free loan deal from Manchester United — with an option to buy for just €30 million. That’s a shockingly low fee for a player who not long ago was valued at four times that amount. Rashford also becomes the first Englishman at the club in 36 years.

At first glance, it looks like a win-win for Barça. They’re getting an experienced yet still relatively young forward (he turns 27 this year), who’s desperate to reboot his top-level career. During a six-month loan at Aston Villa, Rashford recorded 4 goals and 6 assists in just 17 appearances — showing flashes of his old self.

Tactically, Rashford fits well into Hansi Flick’s high-octane, vertical style. He thrives in open spaces, averages 1.5 successful dribbles per match (2022/23 season), and is dangerous when making runs behind the back line — something that could be lethal in La Liga’s more expansive defenses. On top of that, his versatility is a huge asset: he can play anywhere across the front three and slot in for any of Barça’s starting attackers without a major drop-off in quality.

But the real question is whether Barcelona can "handle" Rashford — both mentally and financially.

The forward has had a rocky time mentally in recent seasons, facing prolonged scoring droughts and confidence dips. Last season, he scored just twice in the first 19 Premier League games — a shocking return for a player of his caliber. On top of that, his reported salary of €14 million per year would make him the fifth-highest earner at the club, tied with Raphinha (€14.6m). For a club still recovering financially, that’s a notable risk.

However, what tilts the scales in Rashford’s favor is that Hansi Flick personally pushed for the deal. The German coach is no stranger to managing big egos and complex personalities. If anyone can bring out the best in Rashford, it might be Flick.

A low-cost, high-upside move — Rashford’s Barça chapter could either be a fairytale comeback or another frustrating episode. But one thing is clear: this is a move worth watching.

Published by Patrick Jane
24.07.2025