“I don’t see any possibility” - Rivaldo expresses concern over Marcus Rashford’s place in Barcelona starting XI after loan switch

Barcelona legend Rivaldo has questioned Marcus Rashford's place at the club following the England international's loan move from Manchester United. The 27-year-old joined the Spanish champions this summer after being frozen out at his boyhood club by head coach Ruben Amorim.

Rivaldo praised the Englishman's talent but expressed scepticism at his chances of starting regularly. He pointed out that Brazil international Raphinha will likely keep his place on the left flank in the starting XI, as he is one of the world's best. He said (via Barca Universal):

“For me, Raphinha is today among the five best players in the world. That’s why I think it’s very, very difficult for Rashford to start now. He is a fixed holder. I don’t see any possibility of him leaving Barcelona’s starting eleven."

Barcelona were planning to sign attacking reinforcements this summer, and Spain international Nico Williams was reportedly their top target. However, they failed to sign him and shifted their attention to Marcus Rashford, sealing a temporary agreement with Manchester United.

Rashford joined La Blaugrana on a season-long loan with an option to be made permanent for a reported £30 million next summer. The Englishman made his debut for the Spanish giants in their pre-season friendly against Vissel Kobe in Japan.

Meanwhile, Raphinha enjoyed a career-best season in 2024-25, scoring 34 goals and providing 22 assists across all competitions. The Brazil international is in the running for the Ballon d'Or this year after he helped Barcelona win LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.

Barcelona overcome Vissel Kobe in pre-season opener in Japan

Hansi Flick's Barcelona defeated Japanese outfit Vissel Kobe 3-1 in their first pre-season game ahead of the 2025-26 season. The Spanish giants eased to victory in the first game of their Asian tour in dominant fashion.

Centre-back Eric Garcia opened the scoring for the Spanish giants after 33 minutes with a finish from inside the box. Vissel Kobe equalised nine minutes later through Taisei Miyashiro, who finished off a quick counterattack.

La Blaugrana restored their advantage in the 77th minute, with Roony Bardghji finishing off a pass from Robert Lewandowski. La Masia star Dro Fernandez came off the bench to round off the scoring with a goal on his senior debut with three minutes remaining on the clock.

The Spanish giants will face FC Seoul in South Korea on Thursday, July 31, in their second pre-season game.

About the author

Sulayman is a European and international football writer at Sportskeeda covering news and transfer rumors. He has an overall experience of 4 years, having previously worked at the likes of SportsRation and ExtraTimeTalk. His tryst with the sport happened at a young age, playing it at home and watching the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Sulayman has a good feel for the game, which is reflected in his descriptive articles. He double checks information via multiple sources for accuracy, and only uses top-tier platforms like Transfermarkt and Opta for statistical information. His experience and exploits in the industry have led Sulayman to cover the Nigerian Professional League for three years along with games involving the Nigerian national team. He has also worked in F1, joining hands with industry veterans to provide a smooth viewing experience in Nigeria.

Sulayman hails Lionel Messi as the one true GOAT, and his brace in Argentina’s 2005 U20 FIFA World Cup final win over Nigeria left a lasting impact on him. He also supports Chelsea at club level, having followed their dominance under Jose Mourinho. Sulayman also follows other leagues with Nigerian players like Eredivisie, Saudi Pro League, Turkish Super Lig, and more. When not writing, he enjoys cooking and eating.

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Edited by Sulayman Salahudeen