Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has received glowing reviews from Spanish media after delivering an impressive display during Barcelona's convincing 3-0 victory over Mallorca in La Liga. The forward, making a rare start for the Catalan giants, was instrumental in the win and was rewarded with a standing ovation from supporters when substituted in the second half.
Rashford Seizes Opportunity in Starting Role
With regular starter Rafinha unavailable due to injury, Rashford was handed his first league start since early January and grasped the chance with both hands. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick's decision to include the English international paid dividends as his side extended their lead at the top of La Liga to four points with a dominant performance at the Nou Camp.
Match Highlights and Rashford's Contribution
The scoring was opened by Robert Lewandowski in the 29th minute, capitalising on a saved Rashford effort. Youngster Lamine Yamal then netted for the fifth consecutive match to double the advantage after the hour mark, before fellow teenager Marc Bernal sealed the victory with his first senior goal seven minutes from time.
Despite these contributions, it was Rashford who captured most attention from both media and fans alike. His energetic performance and attacking threat were particularly notable during a first half where Barcelona otherwise appeared somewhat lethargic.
Spanish Press Reaction to Rashford's Performance
Leading Spanish publications were unanimous in their praise for the on-loan Manchester United striker. Mundo Deportivo described Rashford's showing as "hyperactive" and credited him with energising Barcelona after their slow start. The publication noted: "By far, one of Barca's most purposeful players in a first half that was collectively very flat."
They added: "Taking Flick's challenge to heart, he assumed attacking responsibility when the game looked its worst, producing the most dangerous shots, the second leading to the 1-0 goal, and sending a beautiful free kick straight off the crossbar. Substituted to well-deserved applause."
Further Media Acclaim and Analysis
El Desmarque commended both Rashford and Yamal for rousing Barcelona "from their siesta" following the team's sluggish opening. Meanwhile, AS also praised the English forward, though they observed he benefited from more space than Yamal, who faced constant defensive attention on the right flank.
The AS analysis also noted that "Rashford's form has improved throughout the season," suggesting the player is growing into his role at the Catalan club.
Player Ratings and Detailed Assessment
Barcelona-focused website Barca Universal awarded Rashford an impressive 8.5/10 rating, remarking: "Rashford was perhaps Barcelona's most potent threat in the first half as he did not hesitate to cut in and shoot, creating a ruckus in the Mallorca area and bombarding Roman's goal with powerful strikes."
The assessment continued: "He also did well providing a wide threat, although his crosses were well defended for the greater part. In fact, the opening goal stemmed from his shot on goal which fell kindly for Lewandowski."
Football Espana offered a slightly more conservative 7/10 rating but still extended warm praise, stating: "Barcelona's best attacker, and he can count himself unlucky that he did not find the back of the net with one of his ferocious strikes."
Overall Impact and Fan Reception
Barca Blaugranes reported that the team's improvement during the match came "thanks in large part to Marcus Rashford, who was the brightest and most active of the Blaugrana attackers." This sentiment was echoed by the Nou Camp faithful, who rose to their feet to applaud the player when he was substituted midway through the second period.
The widespread acclaim from Spanish media outlets represents significant recognition for Rashford during his loan spell at Barcelona. His performance against Mallorca demonstrated both his individual quality and his growing importance to Hansi Flick's side as they pursue La Liga success.
