Details of Hansi Flick’s chat with Marcus Rashford prior to Barcelona transfer – report | OneFootball

Marcus Rashford will officially become a new FC Barcelona player in the coming hours. It has been a swift transfer, initiated at the end of last week, with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick playing a decisive role in accelerating the deal.

As has already been reported, a direct conversation between the German coach and the Manchester United forward led to Barcelona approving the signing, despite Rashford not being a player who had unanimous support within the sporting department.

How Flick gave the green light to the move

According to SPORT, Flick spoke with Rashford last Thursday. The player had been waiting for this opportunity and had already turned down offers from Saudi Arabia and other top European clubs in order to fulfil his wish of wearing the Barcelona shirt.

The German coach was very direct with him, explaining his role in the team. Flick made it clear to the forward that he would need to earn his starting place and, most importantly, significantly improve his defensive commitment.

Barcelona’s doubts about Rashford have mainly stemmed from his consistent lack of defensive effort. At both Manchester United and Aston Villa, he often enjoyed freedom on the pitch and was not heavily involved in defensive duties.

Hansi Flick was key in Rashford’s signing. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Flick warned him that Barcelona function like a machine in which all players defend and take responsibility, meaning he will be expected to raise his work rate considerably.

Offensively, he was told that his primary role would be as a left winger, and only occasionally as a centre-forward.

Rashford accepted the challenge. He believes his physical condition allows him to be effective both in attack and defence, and he recognises that he must change his on-pitch attitude.

The 27-year-old attacker also understands that he must earn his place, as several players are currently ahead of him after outstanding performances last season.

Flick was very pleased with the conversation and gave his approval for the transfer. Barcelona then gave the green light to the wishes of a coach who is confident in his ability to bring out the best in one of English football’s top talents.

Flick has been one of the strongest advocates for the move, as he has always viewed Rashford as a player with the quality to make a difference and perform at the level needed at Barça. Whether he lives up to the manager’s expectations remains to be seen.