Flick’s dilemma: Is Rashford a scoring genius or a clinical finisher when it matters most?

AS has published a report highlighting Rashford’s inconsistent form for the Catalan club.

The Englishman keeps supporters on the edge of their seats with unstoppable efforts like his latest goal in the 4-0 win over Espanyol or his thunderous free-kicks. Yet he also frustrates them by squandering chances as if he were a machine for missing, as seen in recent one-on-ones with Dmitrovic and Musso.

Most worrying is not just the squandering of chances, but the occasional lack of fighting spirit at crucial moments—as in the Spanish Super Cup final, when he failed to track a Real Madrid player, prompting teammates to shout in frustration. Such scenes prompt questions about his mental buy-in to Flick’s project.

Since joining Barcelona in the summer of 2025, Rashford has successfully reignited his career, recording 12 goals and 13 assists across 41 appearances.

Only the formidable trio of Rafeina, Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez have surpassed Rashford in goal contributions.

Yet a closer look reveals a catch: many of his goals and assists have not swayed the result of major fixtures, suggesting he sometimes disappears when his team needs him most.

Gavi’s impressive form, the excellent fitness of Dani Olmo and Ferran López, and the return of Frenkie de Jong are all factors putting pressure on Flick to change his tactical setup.

Fielding four midfielders would grant Barcelona greater control and defensive solidity, yet it would also mean benching Rashford and shifting focus to the right, where Yamal operates, risking an imbalance on the left.

Flick has repeatedly shown faith in Rashford, especially when Raphinha is absent, but Wednesday’s trip to the Metropolitano represents a different test. The Englishman must prove he is a man for the big stage and worthy of a longer stay, or risk returning to Manchester when his loan expires.