Marcus Rashford has done all within his power to secure a permanent switch to Barcelona following his final outing on loan for the Catalan giants. The forward is set for a return to Manchester United this summer after appearing in a deflating 3-1 loss to Valencia on Saturday.
The ball now rests in Barca’s court. Will they fork out the £26m they’ve long understood will be sufficient to sign Rashford permanently?
Some scathing assessment of the 28 year old’s input in a lacklustre defeat suggested he’s still proving his worth to some. But not everyone was convinced.
Sport’s verdict: ‘Tough’
Sport’s one word summary of Rashford’s display at the Mestalla was “tough.” They awarded him a six out of 10.
But that was merely the beginning of the scrutiny. The Catalan publication went on to dissect what it viewed as a lethargic showing.
“That’s the typical adjective used to describe someone who runs a lot but doesn’t finish anything,” read the review.
“At Barca, you have to demand more from a winger, beyond the Englishman’s extraordinary stats.”
Rashford completed 89 per cent of his passes (32 in total), the second highest of any Barca starter not in defence. However, he failed to register a shot and completed just one dribble.
Mundo Deportivo: ‘Intermittent’
Mundo Deportivo was not quite as cutting. Instead, greater consistency was called for.
Rashford’s display was branded “intermittent.”
“Lacking consistency in his play, with moments of prominence thanks to his crosses into the box, and too many minutes spent missing.”
The stats that matter
It’s worth remembering it was only a fortnight ago that Rashford netted a stunning free kick in El Clasico to help seal the title. That strike brought his tally to 14 goals and 14 assists during his loan spell.
Expecting such moments week in, week out would be unrealistic. His statistics undeniably speak for themselves.
Nevertheless, similar points have occasionally been the case at United in years gone by. More consistent delivery of those sporadic flashes of brilliance remains the ultimate goal.
Football Espana: ‘Unable to make an impact’
Football Espana handed Rashford a 6.5 out of 10 and described his last outing in Barca colours as “bright at times.”
However, it went on to say that “in possibly his final Barcelona appearance, Rashford was unable to make an impact in attack.”
What happens next?
The £26m permanent clause has long been viewed by many as a steal. His performances in La Liga have only strengthened the belief there is real value to be had.
But Michael Carrick has reportedly made clear his desire to welcome his former teammate back to Old Trafford this summer. Now confirmed as permanent boss, Carrick’s opinion carries weight.
Barca’s loss could yet prove to be United’s gain.
The bottom line
Fourteen goals. Fourteen assists. A El Clasico free kick. And yet, the verdict on his final outing was “tough,” “intermittent,” and “unable to make an impact.”
Rashford has done his bit. Now Barcelona must decide: pay the £26m or let him walk.
Carrick is waiting. Old Trafford is open.
The £26m decision looms. And the Spanish verdict suggests the jury is still out.
