"Raphinha's return to the field saw Barcelona improve significantly in the aspect they have lacked the most since the beginning of the season - the cohesive pressing system off the ball. The Brazilian not only led the team's pressing from the front in both appearances after returning from injury but demanded the same from his teammates, making the side look far more threatening on the field."
"As relayed in a recent report by SPORT, Barcelona are now having serious internal doubts as to whether or not to persist with Rashford beyond the season. The player is currently on loan from Manchester United with a purchase option valued at €30 million, but the club administration is doubting whether that is an investment worth making. No decision has been made yet."
"Rashford's numbers for the club this season cannot be discounted, for he already has six goals and eight assists for the club in 18 matches. What generates doubt, however, is his failure to adapt to the pressing system and role. Raphinha's return from injury has made it clear that a winger for Barcelona must not only be technically sound and lethal in front of goal but also willing to put in the defensive effort off the ball."
Raphinha's return improved Barcelona's cohesive off-the-ball pressing, as he led the team's pressing from the front and demanded defensive effort from teammates. The team looked far more threatening in his two appearances after returning from injury. Marcus Rashford's performances on the left were comparatively less effective within the pressing system. Rashford has six goals and eight assists in 18 matches but has struggled to adapt to the required defensive role. Barcelona face internal doubts about exercising the €30 million purchase option on Rashford after his loan from Manchester United. Club voices are split and no final decision has been made.
Read at Barca Universal
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