Marcus Rashford’s impressive performance for Barcelona against Real Madrid should serve as a stark reminder to Ruben Amorim of the talent Manchester United lack. The forward was sidelined at Old Trafford following Amorim’s arrival, but headed to Camp Nou on a season-long loan this summer. Rashford was left out of the manager’s plans and spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa.
After returning from the Midlands, the 27-year-old immediately sought another move away from United when it became clear he was not yet in Amorim’s plans. His wish came true when Barcelona signed him on a season-long loan. It’s no exaggeration to say that Rashford has grown up with the Catalan giants ever since.
The striker has already scored five goals in 12 appearances and provided his seventh assist of the season against Real Madrid on Sunday afternoon.
Kylian Mbappé’s opener had brought them within a point, when Alejandro Balde picked up the ball on the edge of the box, broke into the backline and ran past Rashford.
In a display of great sportsmanship, Rashford passed the ball to Fermin López, who flicked the ball past a helpless Thibaut Courtois.
Barcelona’s joy was short-lived, however, as Jude Bellingham scored for Real Madrid just before half-time. This was the winner and Pedri was sent off just before the final whistle, leaving Barcelona one game behind.
Rashford’s impressive form this season should be a wake-up call for Amorim, suggesting he may have let one of United’s most promising talents go prematurely.
He is on loan at Barcelona until the end of the season, but the club have the option to make his move permanent for a reported fee of around £30 million.
This could be a bargain if Barcelona decide to trigger this clause, especially considering Rashford’s market value is likely to rise if he continues to shine in La Liga and the Champions League.
United are in good form despite losing one of their star academy graduates. The Reds are currently on a three-game winning streak, with wins over Sunderland, Liverpool and Brighton.
They overcame a late comeback from the Seagulls on Saturday to take all three points with Brian Mbeumo scoring twice. The Red Devils held on for the win, with Matheus Cunha and Casemiro also scoring.
