Barcelona’s start to the La Liga season has been met with both optimism and scrutiny as new arrivals continue to adapt to life under Hansi Flick.
The Catalan giants are winless in their last couple matches, with the focus shifting towards individual performances that could define their campaign.
Among the new faces settling in, one player’s adjustment has drawn particular attention both in Spain and back in England.
With intense competition for attacking spots and constant media pressure, the spotlight has never been brighter.
Yet even amid Barcelona’s resurgence, controversy has followed one of their summer signings across the continent.
That man is Marcus Rashford.
The England international recently made headlines after reflecting on his struggles during his final years at Manchester United.
Marcus Rashford defended his performances, claiming his form had suffered because he was “in an inconsistent environment for a long time.”
His comments divided opinion among fans and pundits, but none struck harder than the words of former United captain Wayne Rooney.
Speaking on a BBC podcast, Rooney hit back at Rashford’s remarks, saying, “I think the environment has not been right.
“I talked about this a few weeks ago, but that’s his fault.
“If you don’t play well or if you’re left out of the team, I think it’s easier to blame the environment.
“That depends on how hard you work.
“In the games we’ve seen him play, where we know he can do more, we know he can run more; that has nothing to do with the environment.
“I may be wrong, but I really like Marcus as a person, but I think it’s easy to say that to people.”
Rooney’s sharp criticism suggested that Rashford’s struggles at Old Trafford were not just about the atmosphere within the club, but also his own approach and mentality.
The Manchester United legend made it clear that personal effort and discipline were key, qualities he believes Rashford didn’t always show consistently enough.
Having shared a dressing room with the forward during his breakthrough years, Rooney knows exactly what Rashford is capable of when fully motivated.
Yet his remarks imply that the 27-year-old must take accountability if he’s to reach those heights again.
For Barcelona, Rashford’s transfer represents a chance at redemption, both for the player and for the club’s new era under Flick.
Despite the noise from England, the forward has shown glimpses of brilliance in La Liga, with the Catalan faithful hopeful that away from the Manchester spotlight, he can finally deliver the consistency he once promised.
Wayne Rooney doesn’t believe the environment was to blame for Marcus Rashford’s inconsistent form at Manchester United ❌ pic.twitter.com/INSf7eJQrk
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) October 17, 2025
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
