Marcus Rashford’s long-anticipated move to Barcelona was expected to mark the beginning of a fresh chapter in his career. After a turbulent period at Manchester United, the England international joined the Catalan giants on a season-long loan, with an option to buy for $35 million next summer. The forward called the transfer a “dream move”—but almost immediately, his dream was met with a dose of cold reality.
It didn’t take long for one of the club’s most revered figures, Rivaldo, to weigh in. The 2002 World Cup winner and Ballon d’Or recipient issued both encouragement and a blunt reality check for Rashford. While the Brazilian legend backs the Englishman to succeed at the Camp Nou, he also made it clear that there would be no shortcuts to stardom.
“He’s got everything it takes to shine, especially with the top manager he’ll have by his side. That will really help with his development,” Rivaldo said in a recent interview. “He’s a fantastic player, no doubt about it. Definitely a brilliant signing.”
But the Brazilian was quick to temper expectations. Rashford may be a marquee name, but that doesn’t guarantee him a place in the starting eleven—especially not in a squad coming off a title-winning season.
“Barcelona had a great season last year, so it’s normal for him to start off on the bench,” Rivaldo added. “Little by little, he’ll find his rhythm, understand how the manager wants the team to play, and gradually settle in. Over time, he’ll earn his spot.”
The harsh Raphinha reality
Then came the bad news: Rashford will not be walking into the team at the expense of Raphinha. The Brazilian winger had an extraordinary 2024/25 season, tallying 34 goals and 25 assists in 57 appearances. According to Rivaldo, Raphinha is untouchable.
“I think it’s highly unlikely that Rashford will take Raphinha’s spot,” Rivaldo stated bluntly. “In my view, Raphinha is currently among the top five players in the world.”
He continued: “Right now, he’s an undisputed starter at Barça and already a club icon. Everyone—the players, the coaching staff, the whole club—rates him very highly. What he did last season was outstanding. That position is his.”
Rashford’s road back to relevance
Rashford, now 27, is trying to rediscover the form that once made him one of the Premier League’s most electrifying players. He enjoyed a stellar 2022-23 campaign but saw his form nosedive afterward. Last season, he was sent on loan to Aston Villa after clashing with United’s manager Ruben Amorim. Upon his return, he found himself isolated from first-team training, effectively closing the door on his Old Trafford career.
Rivaldo acknowledged the challenges Rashford has faced, but believes a change of scenery could reignite his fire. “He left a club in a tough situation and joined a team like Barcelona. It’s only natural the coach will want to assess him over time. But he’s a hugely talented player and an international. I fully expect him to earn a place in Barca’s starting XI and re-establish himself in the England squad too.”