FC Barcelona has pulled off a transfer move that seemed impossible just a few weeks ago. An express signing, with no leaks, no soap opera, and with an attitude reminiscent of the greats from another era. Marcus Rashford has said yes to Barça, but the most striking thing isn't his arrival, but the terms of the deal.
The English international had been followed for some time, but his salary and status seemed like an insurmountable wall. However, the player's determination has completely changed the scenario, speeding up negotiations in record time. While others waited for clauses, bonuses, and guarantees, Rashford arrived with a clear message: he wants to play here.
Manchester United hasn't made it easy at any point, neither financially nor institutionally. There were no favors, no loans, and no financial help of any kind from Old Trafford. Everything pointed to an unworkable operation, until the player took the decisive step that changed everything.
Much more than a signing
Rashford prioritized the sporting challenge above all else, distancing himself from the trend of recent years. Barça needed something like this: commitment, ambition, and a profile capable of taking responsibility in decisive moments. His arrival isn't a response to a market opportunity, but to an explicit desire to wear the blaugrana jersey.
In Camp Nou offices, the gesture has been met with astonishment and gratitude by the club. They didn't expect such a firm stance from the forward, especially after years at the top of the Premier League. The player has understood Barça's context, and has accepted terms that many considered impossible for his status.
The comparison is inevitable, because for weeks Barça worked to bring in a young, domestic, and promising winger. There were meetings, calls, and even a formal proposal, but the terms demanded by his camp frustrated the operation. That player never took the step that Rashford did... he didn't take it, nor did he want to.
Laporta, firm with those who hesitate
From the very beginning, Laporta made his position clear: without commitment, there would be no signing for anyone. While some players prioritized release clauses or agreements in case they weren't registered, others simply said no. Barça then chose to look at a different profile, more experienced, more competitive, and truly hungry.
Rashford didn't ask to be released if there were problems with registration nor did he demand multimillion-dollar guarantees. His only wish was one: to compete at Barça, regain his best form, and feel important again. That's why he accepted a formula that allows the club to keep control without taking on disproportionate risks.
It's a loan with a purchase option, agreed at €30 million ($32.6 million) if the Englishman proves himself on the field. Otherwise, there's an exit clause that allows Barça to release him with compensation of less than €10 million ($10.9 million). A move with hardly any risk, sealed by a decision that explains everything.
Marcus Rashford earned €18 million ($19.6 million) per year at Manchester United as one of its stars. At FC Barcelona, he has accepted a 30% pay cut to finalize his signing with no conditions. He'll earn €5 million ($5.4 million)... even less than Nico Williams, who asked for €20 million ($21.8 million) and never took the step that Rashford did.