Marcus Rashford revival at Barcelona could reach a new level as Hansi Flick prepares to hand the English forward a central attacking role in his reshaped system.
[Mundo Deportivo reports] that Flick, frustrated by recent defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Sevilla, has spent the international break planning major tactical changes with Rashford at the heart of them.
– ADEVERTISEMENT –
Once written off and loaned out of Manchester United, Rashford has gone from Premier League exile to becoming one of Flick’s biggest hopes at Camp Nou.
The German coach is ready to deploy Rashford as his main striker, supported by Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Fermín Lopez. Their fitness will decide when the new setup is introduced, with Girona on October 18 and Olympiacos on the 21st both possible test games before El Clasico on October 26.
The plan builds on Rashford’s strong pre-season form, when he scored in a 5-0 friendly win over Daegu FC after replacing Robert Lewandowski. “He can play at No.9 or No.11,” Flick said. “We wanted to see how he adapted to the position.”
– ADEVERTISEMENT –
Flick believes Rashford’s pace, aggression and pressing can reignite Barcelona’s attacking spark. Sporting director Deco supports the approach, saying the club won’t rush to sign a new striker despite Lewandowski’s age.
“We shouldn’t be obsessed with signing a number 9,” Deco said. “Perhaps you can do without one.”
If the plan succeeds, Rashford could emerge as the centrepiece of Flick’s rebuild — the player who found his spark again in Spain.