'Will try & match him' - Marcus Rashford told he's capable of topping Lamine Yamal’s output during Barcelona loan from Man Utd

England international Rashford finds himself in Catalonia after enduring a humbling tumble down the pecking order at Manchester United. Having once been the star boy at Old Trafford, the 27-year-old forward is now out of sight and mind.

A season-long loan at Barca has been sanctioned, which includes the option for a permanent transfer in 2026. Rashford is determined to prove his worth, as he aims to line up alongside 18-year-old wonderkid Yamal.

Rashford has posted 30-plus goal contributions in the past and, speaking in association with William Hill, ex-United defender Brown told GOAL when asked if he can top Yamal's numbers in 2025-26: “Marcus has got the experience to do that. Talent-wise, you have to say Yamal is a different breed. Marcus will try and match him in every way, talking about players in his own team. They play a little bit different. I’m sure Marcus will want to show everyone at Barcelona, and himself, what he can do.

“Comparing Yamal and Marcus, they are just a little bit different. Marcus is a bit older now, but you still look at how he is - how his physique is, how he plays his game, he’s still quick, very fit. He will be trying to do exactly what he did at Manchester United over the years. Yamal is an up-and-coming superstar, he’s got the ability that you don’t see often and he’s doing it at the highest level at the moment.”

Brown added on the ability that Rashford is now working alongside: “Yamal is unbelievable. He’s a talent that is in the Messi mould, the Ronaldo mould. You can see it there. Will he do it for many years? You hope so.

“Raphinha as well, he has stepped up after leaving Leeds. We thought he was a good player but it was whether you can do it at that higher level. It’s a big challenge. There are really good individuals there. They will be excited about their season. Yamal, for me, is probably the brightest star among everyone.”

Rashford has already been among the goals for Barca in pre-season and Brown said when pressed on whether a lost spark will be rekindled with the Blaugrana: “He looks sharp. I will always watch Marcus wherever he is, but he looks sharp. He’s starting as well. It will be interesting to see.

“He’s a good player. Marcus needs to get his head down and really perform for Barcelona. What a team to be able to do that for. Yes, there will be a lot of eyes on him this year to see how he does, and hopefully he’s focused.

“Marcus has got the ability to be able to really shine at that club and show what he is all about and what he can do. There are not many people that don’t wish him good luck. You want him to do well.

“Over the years he has been fantastic for United. The last couple of years have not been brilliant. If you have a fall out with the manager, it’s not ideal. It happens a lot in football and now he’s moved on. He came to Man United as a young footballer who wanted to play for Man United. He did that, won trophies, and you just wish him all the best.”

Rashford is hoping to avoid drama with Barca on the registration front, with it yet to be confirmed that he will be cleared to form part of Hansi Flick’s plans for a season opener against Mallorca on Saturday.