Hansi Flick says he is proud of Marcus Rashford’s commitment to Barcelona, following the shocking news that young star Doro Fernandes has submitted a transfer request. The 18-year-old has reportedly triggered his own £5.1m release clause in a bid to force his departure this month.
However, the teenager has decided to leave Barcelona and the club is upset by his choice. Flick addressed the incident in his pre-match media briefing ahead of Sunday’s game against Real Sociedad, and was visibly annoyed.
The German manager pointed to Rashford as a perfect example, stressing that he only wants players who truly want to represent Barcelona. Flick hinted that he would like to secure the striker permanently once his season-long loan from Manchester United ends, and stressed that the forward’s mentality is exemplary.
“Marcus’ performances have been really good so far, so we have to manage that, but it’s[sporting director]Deco’s job to do something for next season,” Flick declared. “We have to wait.
“We have a few more months to go. For me, of course we have a top-level player with Marcus, but also considering our situation and what I am very grateful to him for (his desire to be here).”
“This is what I want to say to the young players of La Masia: We are Barça, one of the best teams in the world. We are giving them the opportunity, support and confidence to train with us, to develop and to train with the best players in the world.”
“If you want to play for Barça, you have to play with all your heart and 100 percent. This is what I want to say to everyone: 100 percent. These colors, you have to live for them. Everything else, I don’t want.”
The former Bayern Munich manager was so upset that he had to bite his tongue when talking about Fernandes’ impending departure.
“I said it before, and if you haven’t done that then I won’t answer this question, but this is also football,” Flick lamented.
“Sometimes it happens like that. Sure, I may not agree with what they’re doing, but they’re 18 years old, old enough to make decisions, and they have people around them. Of course, when I look like that…no, I don’t want to talk anymore, enough is enough.”
Fernandes joined Barcelona in 2022 as a 14-year-old and has been compared to teammate Pedri and former star Thiago Alcantara. He made his Champions League debut in October, recording an assist as Barcelona defeated Olympiakos 6-1.
