Sophia
Barcelona’s highly anticipated 2025–26 Champions League campaign kicked off with a bang, largely thanks to a scintillating performance from new signing Marcus Rashford. After a somewhat subdued start to his Barcelona career, the English forward exploded onto the scene, delivering a match-winning brace in the team’s thrilling 2–1 victory over Newcastle United.
Rashford Seizes the Opportunity
With star winger Lamine Yamal sidelined due to injury, Rashford stepped up to fill the void, demonstrating precisely why Barcelona invested in his talent. His first goal showcased his predatory instincts, as he expertly positioned himself to head home a precise cross from Jules Koundé, giving Barcelona the crucial lead. Not content with just one, Rashford then unleashed a spectacular strike from the edge of the box, completing his brace and securing Barcelona’s first Champions League points of the season.
These two goals marked Rashford’s first in the coveted Blaugrana shirt, and the praise for his performance was immediate and widespread.
Flick’s High Expectations Met
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who had publicly challenged Rashford to perform in Yamal’s absence, expressed his delight after the match.
“To be honest, I expect it, but I’m really happy for him,” Flick told beIN Sports. “I think he’s had not an easy last few years. For me, it’s great, with the confidence he can get from these two goals, maybe he can make the next step and I’m very happy.”
Flick’s confidence in Rashford is not new. “I have followed Marcus since he started at Manchester United. I always said the kind of player he is was really unbelievable. He has speed, but also in one vs. one situations is really fantastic. And also finishing. What I saw in the first weeks here is really good. He also has more potential he can show us. He wants to do this, of course. For me, it’s great to have him on my team.”
Praise from Peers
Rashford’s impressive showing also caught the attention of his peers. England national team colleague Anthony Gordon, who was on the opposing side, lauded the forward’s talent.
“I’m really happy for him,” Gordon stated to beIN Sports. “He’s worked very hard, he seemed very happy last time I was on England camp with him. And listen, he’s a top, top player, when he’s on his day, one of the best in the world. He scored two amazing goals, so well done to him.”
Current Barcelona teammates Ronald Araújo and Joan García also spoke highly of Rashford’s contribution. Even former Manchester United teammates, Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho, joined in the celebrations, sharing Rashford’s second goal on Instagram, a testament to the respect he commands across the footballing world.
A New Chapter in Barcelona
After a challenging period in his career, the 27-year-old striker appears to have found a new lease on life at Barcelona. “It’s an amazing experience [playing at Barcelona]. It’s amazing football, amazing players and we just want to win as much as possible,” Rashford shared with TNT Sports after the game.
This brace against Newcastle United brings Rashford’s career tally against the Magpies to an impressive seven goals in 16 appearances, highlighting his consistent threat against the Premier League side. As Yamal continues his recovery, Rashford will be eager to build on this stellar performance and further cement his place in Hansi Flick’s plans. His next opportunity to impress could come this Sunday when Barcelona hosts Getafe in La Liga.
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