Club view Rashford as a player who will make an impact over the long campaign
Barcelona have no plans to cut short Marcus Rashford’s loan spell despite a difficult start to life in La Liga.
The 27-year-old forward arrived from Manchester United late in the summer window after Barcelona failed to land Nico Williams, joining on loan following a short stint at Aston Villa.
Expectations were high that Rashford’s pace and experience at the top level would add a new dimension to Hansi Flick’s attack.
But three games into the season, Rashford has played fewer than 100 minutes and is yet to register a goal or assist. His muted displays have left him behind Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Dani Olmo and teenager Lamine Yamal in the selection order.
That lack of impact has sparked speculation that Barcelona could look to send him back to Manchester before the end of the season. However, sources close to the club insist that is not the case.
According to Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, the Catalan side remain convinced of Rashford’s ability and have told his representatives they expect him to rediscover his form.
Barcelona view him as a player who will make an impact over the long campaign. The forward has not hit the ground running, but the club believe his fitness and confidence will improve with time.
Given the congested schedule ahead and with Flick keen to rotate his options, Rashford is still expected to play a significant role.