Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has completed a season-long loan move to Barcelona but Rivaldo has raised concerns for him at the Camp Nou next term
Barcelona legend Rivaldo believes Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford will struggle to start ahead of Raphinha.
The Reds academy graduate completed a season-long loan move to the Catalan capital on Wednesday. Barcelona will cover Rashford’s wages during his stay at Camp Nou, which is estimated to save United around £12million. The La Liga champions will also have the option to sign him on a permanent deal.
United delayed Rashford’s return to Carrington for pre-season earlier this month and stripped him of the iconic No.10 shirt. But he now has his dream move to Barcelona after spending the second half of 2024/25 on loan at Aston Villa.
However, Rivaldo insists that Rashford is unlikely to start ahead of Raphinha, who scored a staggering 34 goals under Hansi Flick last term.
“I think that’s highly unlikely that Rashford will take Raphinha’s spot, especially after the season Raphinha had last year. In my view, Raphinha is currently among the top five players in the world,” he told Betfair.
“Right now, he’s an undisputed starter at Barça and already a club icon. Everyone, the players, the coaching staff, the whole club rates him very highly.
“What he did last season was outstanding, so without a doubt, that position is his. Of course, it’s always good to have top-quality players around you. So yes, there will be competition, but I don’t think Rashford is going to take Raphinha’s place.
“Other opportunities will arise, and with training, the manager will likely find a way to fit them both into the team. But for me, Raphinha is a nailed-on starter. I don’t see any chance of him being dropped from Barça’s starting line-up.”
Rivaldo also shared his belief that Rashford will have to earn his place in Barca’s starting 11.
He added: “When a player leaves a club in a tough situation, like he did, and joins a team like Barcelona, it’s only natural that the coach will use training sessions and the first few matches to get a better look at him.
“Barcelona had a great season last year, so it’s normal for him to start off on the bench. I believe that little by little, he’ll find his rhythm, start to understand how the manager wants the team to play, get used to the training routines, and gradually settle in. Over time, he’ll earn his spot.
“He’s a hugely talented player — he’s already proven that in one of the toughest leagues in the world. He’s also an international. So, I fully expect him to earn a place in Barça’s starting eleven and re-establish himself as a regular in the England squad too.”
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2025-07-24 10:30:00
