Barcelona has confirmed the signing of Marcus Rashford on loan with an option to buy, with the 27-year-old their second reinforcement of the summer. The international Van England leaves Manchester United for the second time in his career, again on loan, but after a loaded two years at Old Trafford.
Rashford spoke extensively about how he already felt at home in the Catalan capital, and how enthusiastic he was through the ambition to win in Barcelona. He also confirmed that he would like to come to Barcelona in January.
Earlier in the week, Gary Lineker, the last Englishman who played for Barcelona, had noticed that 'Marcus is not the issue, Manchester United Are'. That quote was placed directly to Rashford and he was asked what went wrong at Old Trafford.
“Manchester United is going through a period of change, and they have been for a while. But United are a large part of not just my career, but also my life, I have nothing to say about Manchester, and I am grateful for the possibility of playing for them. Football, such as life, not everything goes.
“But yes, I have nothing to say about Manchester, I wish them the best and success in the future.”
Rashford was also asked about the fact that he looked happier and more confident than six months ago, before his loan moved to Aston Villa.
“Six months ago it was six months ago. I should improve (laughs). At the moment I am in a good place, I am happy and I am healthy. I am enthusiastic to get started. It is one thing to say that you are motivated and determined, these are things that can change every day, depending on how you feel.”
“Really what I brought back to my life and the sport is the discipline. I am happy to be here, I am ready to be here. There are things that I look forward to, in a new city, in a new competition, against new teams.”
He certainly cut a relaxed and content figure during his presentation and media jaws, and smiled quickly. Hansi Flick will undoubtedly hope to benefit from his new mistakes discipline. Read our interview with expert Isabel Ryan to bring the inside of what Rashford can bring to this side of Barcelona.