Rashford Poised For Success At Barcelona, According To Gary Lineker

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Gary Lineker, a former Barcelona forward, anticipates Marcus Rashford will significantly impact the Catalan club. Rashford is nearing a loan-to-buy transfer from Manchester United to Hansi Flick's LaLiga champions. The deal involves an initial season-long loan, with a potential permanent move for £26 million. Rashford has been with United since he was seven, making 426 appearances and scoring 138 goals.

Despite his long tenure at Manchester United, Rashford's recent form has been inconsistent. In the 2022-23 season, he scored 30 goals across all competitions, helping United secure third place in the Premier League and win the EFL Cup. However, his performance dipped in subsequent seasons. In 2023-24, he managed only eight goals in 43 matches. The following season saw him score 11 times, with four of those goals during a loan spell at Aston Villa.

Lineker remains optimistic about Rashford's potential at Barcelona under Flick's management. "He will do great," Lineker told Sky Sports. "He seems to be in the right frame of mind." Lineker highlighted Barcelona's strong squad but noted the need for rotation due to their busy schedule. He mentioned that while Raphinha, Lewandowski, and Yamal form a stable front three, they can't play every game.

Rashford's training approach has faced criticism, notably from United manager Amorim. Amorim once remarked he would prefer selecting his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach over Rashford. Despite this, Lineker believes Rashford can rediscover his best form at Barcelona. He sees it as a good signing for the club and hopes Rashford can replicate his successful stint at Aston Villa.

Rashford is among five players sidelined from United's first-team squad after requesting transfers. Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia are also seeking new clubs. Antony previously excelled on loan at Real Betis, contributing to 14 goals in 26 games last season—just three fewer than his total in 96 appearances for United.

Lineker pointed out that players leaving Manchester United often thrive elsewhere. "Let's look at the players who have left Manchester United," he said. "They have done unbelievably well everywhere." He suggested there might be underlying issues within the club affecting player performance.

As Rashford prepares for this new chapter in Spain, many hope he can regain his top form and contribute effectively to Barcelona's success on multiple fronts.