Hansi Flick has issued a brutal and direct warning to one of Barcelona’s struggling stars, demanding immediate improvement.
With 11 consecutive victories fuelling title hopes, the Barcelona manager refuses to indulge transfer speculation or wavering focus, making clear that no player—regardless of stature—is guaranteed minutes without earning them through performance and attitude.
The message comes amid a packed schedule balancing La Liga supremacy with cup progression.
That star is Marcus Rashford, the Manchester United loanee whose inconsistent impact has drawn Flick’s pointed criticism, as reported by The Mirror.
The Englishman arrived on a €30 million purchase option last summer, expected to provide versatility and firepower on the wings.
Yet limited starts behind Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, coupled with recent knocks, have seen Rashford struggle for rhythm—managing just four goals and three assists in 18 appearances.
Flick’s blunt assessment highlights Rashford’s failure to match the intensity and output demanded in his high-pressing system.
The coach’s frustration peaked after Rashford’s bench role in the Copa del Rey win over Racing Santander, where individual gym work replaced team drills ahead of Real Sociedad.
Hansi Flick challenged Rashford’s application, stressing that Barcelona activated his loan not as charity but as an opportunity requiring full buy-in. “Players must prove they belong here every day,” Flick reportedly stated, echoing his Bayern Munich philosophy of relentless standards.
Barcelona’s sporting department faces a dilemma: Rashford’s €30m option tempts permanent commitment, yet his form raises doubts about long-term fit amid financial constraints.
The club prioritises retaining him but only if he reignites his Old Trafford peak—dribbling threat, clinical finishing, and work rate.
Hansi Flick, protective of his youth integration with stars like Pedri and Fermín López thriving, views Rashford as a squad player unless he elevates.
With Real Sociedad looming, Rashford’s response will define his Camp Nou future in a season where every point counts.
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