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RCD Mallorca v FC Barcelona - LaLiga EA SportsGetty Images Sport
Aditya Gokhale

'We needed changes!' - Marcus Rashford HOOKED at half-time on first Barcelona start as Hansi Flick explains decision to withdraw Man Utd loanee in comeback win at Levante

M. Rashford
Barcelona
H. Flick
Levante vs Barcelona
Levante
LaLiga
Manchester United

Marcus Rashford was handed his first La Liga start for Barcelona on Saturday but lasted only 45 minutes as Hansi Flick opted to replace the Manchester United loanee at half-time during their dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Levante. Despite a bright opening spell, Rashford was withdrawn with the Blaugrana trailing 2-0 at the break before a late fightback secured all three points.

  • Rashford hooked at half-time on first La Liga start
  • Flick insists substitution was tactical
  • Barcelona complete comeback in added time
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  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    Barcelona found themselves 2-0 down inside the opening half-hour through Ivan Romero’s tidy finish and Jose Luis Morales’ contentious penalty. With his side struggling, Flick reshuffled the pack at half-time by bringing on Dani Olmo for Rashford, which allowed Raphinha to move back out wide. These changes sparked a turnaround as Pedri and Ferran Torres scored before a stoppage-time own goal from Unai Elgezabal sealed victory.

  • Hansi FlickGetty Images

    WHAT FLICK SAID

    Speaking to the press post-match, Flick said: "Marcus had a few chances in the first half and showed he can help us. In the second half, we needed to make changes, and we put Raphinha on the wing. I think they were the right changes to make. The first goal after the break changed the game."

  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Rashford’s loan move from Manchester United was seen as a chance for him to reset after a difficult spell in England. Flick’s willingness to start him shows trust, but being replaced at the break highlights the competition he faces in Barcelona’s attacking setup with Torres, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski higher in contention.

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  • Marcus RashfordGetty Images

    WHAT NEXT FOR RASHFORD?

    Barcelona turn their focus to a tough trip to Rayo Vallecano on August 31 before the international break. Rashford will be eager to prove himself in training and push for another start. Flick faces key selection choices as Lewandowski has also returned to the fold following a pre-season injury.