"Whether or not one considers that Marcus Rashford has only played as much this season because of injuries to other players is a moot point. For a player that was ridiculed in his final days at Manchester United, the England international has more than paid rent for his place in the team. A fifth La Liga assist this season, to Fermin, evidences a player at the top of his game, and one who is becoming vitally important for his teammates and Hansi Flick."
"Let's talk about the elephant in the room. Barca's high line this season has been pathetic at times, and it certainly was once again at the Santiago Bernabeu. Aside from the goals conceded, there were far too many instances where the likes of Jules Kounde in particular was caught rocking on his heels. The opponent in many respects isn't important, given that the failures of the back four over the course of the campaign already in this regard clearly hadn't been addressed."
The first El Clasico of the 2025/26 season saw Barcelona two points behind Real Madrid despite injury problems. Marcus Rashford has provided significant attacking output, registering a fifth La Liga assist to Fermin and offering pace, power and desire that have boosted the team. Raphinha's potential extended absence increases reliance on Rashford for goals and assists. Barcelona's high defensive line has been repeatedly exposed, with Jules Kounde often caught on his heels and the back four failing to move as one. Hansi Flick may need tactical adjustments or personnel changes. Lamine Yamal faced whistles and boos and needed to back up pre-match words with performance.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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