FC Barcelona has been closely following Marcus Rashford as a potential winter reinforcement. However, the English forward has opted for an unexpected destination and has signed with Aston Villa.
Rashford's decision has completely changed Barça's plans. Now, Hansi Flick will have to look for an internal solution to strengthen the attack. The answer is at home, and the chosen one promises to be even better than the English forward.

Marcus Rashford chooses Aston Villa
Manchester United and Barça had advanced in negotiations to finalize a loan. However, the lack of departures in the culé squad blocked the operation. Ansu Fati, who was also on the way out, ultimately stayed, this situation prevented the club from guaranteeing a spot for Rashford.
Faced with uncertainty, the forward decided to accept Aston Villa's offer, Unai Emery offered him minutes and continuity in a competitive team. From Barça, the news hasn't caused much disappointment. Although Flick wanted an offensive reinforcement, he will now have the opportunity to bet on one of La Masia's greatest promises.

Hansi Flick trusts in a homegrown talent
The German coach has made it clear that he needs more alternatives in attack. With Pau Víctor having barely any prominence and Ferran Torres as the only usual impact substitute, Barça finds itself short of options in the forward line.
The solution won't come from the market, but from the youth academy. Dani Rodríguez is the player who excites Flick and the coaching staff the most.
The 19-year-old winger has excelled in the culé reserve team and was ready to make the leap to the first team. His talent hasn't gone unnoticed, and many see him as a future starter at Barça. However, his debut will have to wait a little longer due to a physical issue.

An injury halts his rise to the first team
Dani Rodríguez suffered a hamstring injury in his left leg a few weeks ago. The medical team estimates he will be out for about two months. This pause has been a blow to his progression, as Flick planned to give him minutes in the first team in the upcoming matches.
Despite the setback, the German coach maintains his confidence in him, as soon as he is recovered, he will have his opportunity with the seniors. Those who have closely followed Dani Rodríguez's evolution have no doubts about his talent. His speed, dribbling, and ability to link up make him an ideal profile for Barça.
Some within the club believe he can contribute more than Rashford in the long term. Additionally, coming from La Masia, he perfectly understands the team's philosophy, and his adaptation will be immediate.
Before the injury, Dani Rodríguez was by far the best player in the reserve team. His performances caught Flick's attention, who already had in mind to give him minutes with the first team.
Dani Rodríguez will debut with Barça in two months
If all goes well in his recovery, the winger will be available in April, Flick hopes to count on him for the final stretch of the season. Barça has found in La Masia an answer to its offensive problems. Rashford is already history, and the club has full confidence that Dani Rodríguez will be a much better solution.
The future of the blue and garnet forward line lies with the young players, and Dani Rodríguez is ready to prove his worth at Camp Nou.