Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has rubbished rumors that Marcus Rashford has been treated more harshly than Lamine Yamal over disciplinary issues. Spanish media reports claim that the club’s hierarchy “forced” Yamal to be named in the Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain earlier this month, despite the youngster arriving late for a team meeting.
Meanwhile, Rashford was placed on the bench for the La Liga match against Getafe in September for a similar breach of regulations. There were accusations that the handling of Yamal’s situation amounted to a “double standard”. However, Mr Frick categorically denied these allegations and insisted he had full control over disciplinary matters. “I’d like to know where you got that rumor,” he retorted.
“That’s a terrible story. It’s not true. I have a real relationship with Deco and the other professionals at this club. I believe in my work. I have their trust, but they won’t ask us for it. It’s rubbish. It’s a lie whoever said it.”
Rashford has made a strong start to life at the Catalan giants following his season-long loan move from Manchester United. The 27-year-old England star has regained his place in the Three Lions squad with three goals and five assists in his first 10 appearances.
Despite facing backlash from the Spanish press over his late arrival last month, Barcelona sporting director Deco admitted the club was happy with his adaptation.
The former Barcelona star told Mundo Deportivo: “He is a simple loan, there is no penalty and if we want him we have the option to buy him.”
“It’s too early to talk about decisions for next season, but the important thing is that we are happy with him. He has brought what we thought he would bring.
“He is a very high-level player who exploded very early. Then he had a great season at United and then went through many years of complicated management with changes in coaches. And he probably struggled there too because a lot was asked of him. But we are happy with him, and that’s the most important thing.”
“These are not decisions at the moment. It’s now time to focus on the games ahead. Decisions will be taken, but they are not being discussed right now. There are contracts between the clubs, but it (the future) has to be discussed.”
