Why Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona Debut Was Cut Short After 30 Minutes Against Vissel Kobe
- Marcus Rashford made his Barcelona debut against Vissel Kobe, coming on at half-time before being substituted just 30 minutes later
- Head coach Hansi Flick has shed light on the decision to take off the Manchester United loanee, citing tactical considerations
- Barcelona has continued to grapple with the Spanish La Liga’s salary cap restrictions, delaying Rashford's official club registration
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Marcus Rashford got to wear a Barcelona jersey on Sunday, July 27, but this only lasted for 30 minutes.
He made his debut for the Spanish giants after completing a short-term loan from Manchester United.
Rashford's first appearance for the Catalans came in the pre-season friendly against Japan’s Vissel Kobe.
Source: Getty Images
Marcus Rashford substituted in brief Barcelona debut
Introduced at the beginning of the second half, Rashford had just over 30 minutes to show flashes of what he could offer his new team.
He played a key part in one of Barcelona’s three goals during the 3-1 win over the Japanese team, offering a glimpse of his sharp instincts.
However, with 12 minutes left on the clock, Rashford was curiously replaced, a decision that caught the attention of fans and pundits alike.
Coming on as a substitute only to be taken off again before the game ends is considered to be one of football's most awkward experiences.
Why Rashford was substituted in Barcelona debut
Speaking after the match, head coach Hansi Flick offered a straightforward explanation.
The England forward, he said, was still getting up to speed after a quiet spell at Man United.
"Rashford hasn't played that much, and we also wanted to give Gerard Martin 15 minutes because he was playing after his injury," Flick told reporters, per Goal.
Before going out on loan, Rashford had played just 17 matches in six months and was even training on his own.
Despite the early substitution, Flick’s words appear to imply this was just a matter of managing squad minutes.
Can Barcelona register Marcus Rashford?
While he already played in friendly action, Rashford's competitive debut for Barcelona remains uncertain.
Due to financial challenges and salary cap issues, the club has reportedly not yet registered him for La Liga.
According to BBC Sport, Barcelona is currently over the wage limit that was imposed by the Spanish league.
Last season, the club spent more on salaries and transfers than their in income, resulting in registration delays.
Source: Getty Images
The Spanish giants have until August 16 to sort out their books ahead of their league opener against Mallorca, with Rashford still stuck on the sidelines.
Barcelona boasts a stacked attacking roster that includes rising sensation Lamine Yamal and Brazilian winger Raphinha, both Ballon d’Or hopefuls.
As such, Rashford will not walk straight into the starting line-up, and after two dismal seasons, has to prove his point with a new stage to perform upon.
Why Rashford is poised for Barcelona success
YEN.com.gh also previously reported on some of the reasons why Marcus Rashford is poised for success at Barcelona.
The English forward appears determined to silence his critics and make a statement at one of football’s greatest clubs.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
