Marcus Rashford's arrival at FC Barcelona has meant an unexpected plot twist in the club's plans. Although the deal has been closed under very favorable conditions, not everyone is celebrating his signing. In the offices, they know that this signing has had a collateral effect that's difficult to digest.
Barça needed to strengthen its attack without compromising its fragile salary cap. That's why the loan of the English international from Manchester United has been seen as a strategic opportunity. The club will only assume 70% of his salary, without paying an initial transfer fee and with the option to part ways at the end of the season.
However, Rashford's arrival has forced the club to rule out other ongoing deals. In particular, one that excited both the fans and the sporting management. It was about a young footballer, with great potential, who also knows the club well.
A decision that affects the immediate future
Hansi Flick prioritized bringing in a proven player who could contribute from day one. Marcus Rashford offers experience, dribbling, goals, and a versatile profile that fits perfectly with his idea of play. The German coach wanted guarantees, and the club has replied quickly.
But the move hasn't come for free. With the salary margin already at its limit, the sporting management has had to halt other important deals. The coaching staff has understood that it was necessary to prioritize, although they've regretted the impossibility of making more significant signings.
The sporting management already had everything prepared to go after one of the most desired young players of the moment. A talent who has shined in the Bundesliga and was on the list of several of Europe's top clubs. In fact, everything pointed to Barça having a real option on the table.
Chelsea reacts and moves ahead
The problem has been that other clubs haven't waited. In England, Chelsea has been alert to every move and hasn't taken long to act. With Barça out of the race, the Blues have had a clear path to complete the signing.
From London, they've put an offer of nearly 70 million euros on the table. Their coach wanted a young, offensive profile with the ability to make a difference from the attacking midfield. The player in question met all the requirements.
The agreement with his current club is already closed and only the medical examination remains. In the footballer's circle, they assure that he's very excited about this new stage. He believes that the time has come to take a definitive step in his professional career.
An old acquaintance who won't return
At just 22 years old, the protagonist of this story has had a sensational season in Germany. He has scored eleven goals and provided eight assists in thirty-three official matches. His versatility and maturity have caught the attention of all the top clubs in Europe.
Barça had studied him very well. He was a profile that fit both for his quality and for his past at the club. His return was considered, and conversations took place, although they never fully materialized.
The player, trained at La Masia and with a past in Paris, had considered returning home. However, the financial conditions and Rashford's signing have completely blocked his return. In the end, he has chosen Chelsea's project to continue his rise.
This is Xavi Simons, one of the great jewels of Dutch soccer. Barça had him close, but this time he slipped away. The bet has been on Rashford, and Chelsea has won an unexpected battle.