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News
- 49 minutes ago
Marcus Rashford sends emphatic transfer message to Barcelona
Cameron Smith
- 5 Apr 2026 13:07 BST
- 4 min read
News
Marcus Rashford significantly boosted his chances of securing a permanent move to Barcelona this summer with a crucial goal during their 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid on Saturday night.
The England international was handed a start by head coach Hansi Flick following a hamstring injury sustained to Raphinha and he used the opportunity to score his 11th goal of the season to draw Barcelona level in the 42nd minute.
Current ETV
Marcus Rashford
F, M (L)
Barcelona
Marcus Rashford
F, M (L)
Barcelona
ETV Range
€34.7M - €42.4M
Giuliano Simeone had opened the scoring for Atleti three minutes earlier, but Rashford levelled proceedings before half-time, with Barcelona talisman Robert Lewandowski eventually netting the winner in the 87th minute.
The result, coupled with Real Madrid’s shock defeat to Mallorca, means Barca are now seven points clear at the top of the Spanish top flight table and they are in pole position to secure a second consecutive La Liga title as a result.
With Raphinha set to be sidelined until May, Rashford has been given the perfect platform to prove his worth to Barcelona and ahead of the Atletico Madrid clash, it was claimed that he faced a “defining week” in regards to his Camp Nou career.
The Blaugrana have the option to make his loan deal permanent for €30 million this summer, but widespread reports have confirmed that a final decision has not yet been made.
However, Rashford delivered the perfect response with a fantastic goal against Atleti to boost his chances of a move back to Camp Nou tenfold. In a crucial clash at the top of La Liga, the Englishman stepped up when required and proved he is capable of deputising for Raphinha on a permanent basis if Barcelona opt to sign him.
Analysis: Will Barcelona sign Rashford this summer?
Rashford was direct and dangerous against Atleti, but he was by no means perfect. His out of possession work was slow and laboured, with the Englishman lacking any real intent whenever Barcelona didn’t have the ball.
This led to significant criticism from Blaugrana fans on social media, with many calling Rashford out for his lack of pressing.
However, the England star delivered when it mattered most and his intent on the ball proved just how valuable he could be as a weapon for Flick next season. As a rotation option capable of deputising for Raphinha when required, Rashford could be a steal at €30m and his credentials were undoubtedly boosted by his performance on Saturday.
Furthermore, he will likely be handed another opportunity to impress against Atletico during the first-leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash on Wednesday.
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