The start was spectacular. Consistency has question marks. Marcus Rashford (29, Barcelona)'s time is wavering.
The U.S. magazine Sports Illustrated (SI) highlighted Marcus Rashford's future on the 24th (KST), saying, "FC Barcelona wants him to stay but is simultaneously reviewing replacements." It already feels like a 'plan B' is being activated inside the club.
The start exceeded expectations. Immediately after joining on loan he quickly settled into the team, recording 15 attacking points in his first 20 matches. The problem is what came next. In the most recent 15 matches he has 3 goals and 1 assist. His playing time itself has also decreased. The momentum has been broken.
It's not only a drop in finishing. His overall influence on matches has declined. His presence in attacking build-up has faded, and his performances have become noticeably inconsistent from game to game. The "game-changing moments" he showed early in the season have disappeared.
Contract issues are also tangled in. Barcelona prefers to extend the loan through the 2026-2027 season. Manchester United, meanwhile, wants a permanent transfer. There is an option around $35 million, but Barcelona has no immediate intention to execute it.
Whether the future can be entrusted to his current performance will be held to strict standards. At this point, a list of replacements has emerged.
The most eye-catching name is Antonio Nusa (21, Leipzig). A 20-year-old winger developing at RB Leipzig, his one-on-one dribbling ability and creativity are already regarded as top-tier talents. His attacking-point productivity is still lacking. This season he has managed only six attacking points. But his potential is clear. From a long-term perspective he is regarded as the most ideal card as a "post-Rashford."
Xavi Simons (23, Tottenham) is also being linked again. There is symbolic value in being a La Masia product. His versatility, oscillating between attacking midfielder and wide areas, is a strength. Coupled with his shaky standing at Tottenham Hotspur, an exit possibility has been raised. He is a different type from Rashford. Instead, his tactical range of use is wider.
Abde Ezzalzouli (25, Real Betis) is a more realistic option. He has proven consistency at Betis. This season he is approaching double-digit attacking points and continues a career-high flow. His direct dribbling and spatial awareness fit Barcelona's attacking style. The fact that the club holds some rights is also a variable.
Yan Virgili (20, Mallorca) is closer to a "future investment." A 19-year-old winger, he quickly established himself at Mallorca. His goal scoring is still lacking. Instead, his playmaking ability is clear. Barcelona holds an option that serves as a right of first negotiation, so they can move quickly depending on the situation.
Pedro Neto (26, Chelsea), mentioned last in this report, is ready to contribute immediately. He can play on both flanks and has speed and crossing ability. As competition within Chelsea becomes more complex, a transfer possibility has opened. In terms of completeness, he is the most stable choice.
If the current trend continues, Barcelona's choice will inevitably change. There is a good chance they will turn to a new card instead of extending the loan. Of course Rashford still has opportunities. But time is not on his side.
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