Marcus Rashford knows he's in form! Barcelona's newest star revels in latest assist as former Man Utd team-mates send support after exile

A future in Manchester for Rashford appears unlikely at this stage, although questions continue to be asked of how much longer Ruben Amorim will remain in charge of the Red Devils. Any change in the dugout could see the slate wiped clean for those that have been frozen out under the current regime.

Barca, though, will be hoping that Rashford offers enough across his season-long loan in Catalunya that it becomes impossible for them to ignore the purchase option which can be triggered next summer. A permanent stay in Spain would appear to be the preferred option for all concerned at present.

Rashford is staking a serious claim for extended terms in Barcelona. He recently returned to English soil in stunning style when netting a spectacular brace against Newcastle in a Champions League tie at St James’ Park. His timekeeping has been called into question again since then, leading to a domestic benching, but he continues to earn favour from Blaugrana boss Hansi Flick.

That faith was rewarded in Barca’s latest outing, as they hit back from going a goal down to beat Real Sociedad 2-1. It was from Rashford’s 31st-minute corner that Jules Kounde restored parity in that contest. Teenage wonderkid Lamine Yamal went on to tee up veteran Polish striker Robert Lewandowski for the winner just before the hour mark. Unbeaten reigning champions Barcelona are now top of the Liga table - one point clear of Clasico rivals Real Madrid.

Rashford has registered five goal involvements this season - the joint-most, alongside Ferran Torres and Raphinha, on Barca’s books in the 2025-26 campaign. In contrast, United have seen summer signings Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo muster just three between them - leading to more uncomfortable questions being asked of the recruitment model at Old Trafford.

Rashford is paying little attention to events in his homeland, with great pride being taken in his current performances. He is delivering the perfect response to any doubters, with the Three Lions star posting on social media after helping Barca to another hard-fought win: "Huge 3 points! Let’s keep pushing.”"

Said comment has attracted support from some familiar faces. Tyrell Malacia, who has become another member of the infamous ‘bomb squad’ at Old Trafford, liked Rashford’s post. Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee pressed the same button, as did former United midfielder Donny van de Beek - who also finds himself rebuilding his career in Catalunya with Girona after being given a tough time by the Red Devils.

Rashford has said of adjusting to new surroundings and embracing a new culture a long way outside of his comfort zone: "We have a team with top players. It’s difficult to arrive in a new city, a new culture, but I’m enjoying it and I’m getting more and more comfortable. As time goes by I’ll improve my football."

Barca are reaping the rewards of that, with German head coach Flick saying of Rashford’s contribution in important areas: "We practice dead ball situations a lot and it's really important to have this strength. We are very happy with how it is going."

Rashford faces fierce competition for places at Barca, but will be hoping to have done enough to retain his starting berth for another intriguing continental clash. Flick’s side will be back in Champions League action on Wednesday when playing host to the current holders of that prestigious crown, Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain - who have seen former Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele collect the Ballon d’Or for 2025 as the best player on the planet.