How Barcelona new signing’s versatility can make him a tactical asset for Hansi Flick | OneFootball

After months of speculation, Marcus Rashford is finally a Barcelona player and is currently in Japan with the rest of the players for the pre-season.

One would expect Rashford to participate in the upcoming friendly against Vissel Kobe on Sunday, where Hansi Flick will get the first glimpse of the Englishman’s talents.

Rashford comes on the back of an impressive reputation, especially for his tactical flexibility, as he can operate anywhere across the final third.

Where will Rashford play at Barcelona?

A recent report Diario SPORT has offered detailed insights into the tactical options Hansi Flick has at his disposal following the arrival of Rashford.

It is no secret that Rashford’s preferred role is as a left winger, cutting in from the flank onto his stronger right foot.

It’s a position that not only suits his profile but also aligns with Barcelona’s long-standing objective to reinforce the left wing.

Flick will look to get the best out of Rashford (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Before landing Rashford, Barça had explored the signings of Nico Williams and Luis Díaz for that exact role, though neither of the pursuits actually worked out.

With Lamine Yamal firmly established on the right and Robert Lewandowski still the first-choice striker, Rashford could become the missing piece in Flick’s preferred front three.

His arrival also offers Flick the flexibility to rotate Raphinha or move him to more central positions, a tactical option the German coach is reportedly exploring in his second season.

More than just a winger

However, Rashford’s usefulness isn’t just restricted to the flanks. The Englishman has played no less than 160 games operating as a centre-forward as well.

That means he can also operate as an alternative for Robert Lewandowski in the number nine position.

Rashford has also featured on the right wing (51 games) and, more rarely, as a second striker or attacking midfielder.

His 138 goals in 426 games for Manchester United suggest the Englishman can be an asset not only in terms of tactical flexibility but also productivity in the final third.