Barça has brought in Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United, and his arrival has caused high expectations within the club. Initially, the purpose of his signing was to provide rotation for the starting trio of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski. Last season, Flick was barely able to give them any rest due to the lack of reliable alternatives on the bench, which led to obvious fatigue.
With Rashford, Barça aimed to strengthen that rotation and allow its attacking stars to be fresher for the decisive stages of matches. His versatility, being able to play both on the wing and as a striker, fits perfectly into Flick's approach. At first, his role was going to be that of a top-level super-sub, a reliable alternative to give the usual starting eleven some breathing room.
Rashford aims for the starting eleven
However, the reality in the first training sessions has exceeded all expectations. Rashford has impressed with his physical performance, intensity, and ability to quickly adapt to the German coach's system. What began as an option to rest the starters has shifted toward real competition for a spot in the starting line-up.
Everything suggests that the English international will not only play, but will also be a key figure from the start. In this new scenario, the initial idea of reducing Raphinha and Lewandowski's minutes has changed. Flick is considering an offensive reorganization that would allow all four forwards to fit in: Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Rashford.
Raphinha moves to the center and Rashford stays on the wing
The option of Raphinha as a playmaker isn't new, but now it's becoming a real possibility to accommodate Rashford on the left wing. This adjustment would keep Lewandowski as the attacking reference and Lamine Yamal on the right, completing a versatile and explosive attacking front. Rashford, with his power and ability to beat defenders, would offer depth and an element of surprise down the left side.
The affected: Dani Olmo and Fermín
However, this reconfiguration also has negative consequences for other players. The most affected appears to be Dani Olmo, who had been the starting attacking midfielder since he arrived. With Raphinha now occupying that area of the field, his prominence could be greatly reduced.
Fermín, who was usually Olmo's substitute in that position, could also lose prominence. His role as an impact substitute from the bench would be diminished by the accumulation of attacking talent in the starting eleven. So, while some gain space, others will have to fight not to lose it in a season that promises to be exciting for Barça.