Marcus Rashford scored as England beat Croatia on Wednesday, giving Spanish media plenty to discuss regarding the forward and Anthony Gordon. Barcelona had Rashford on loan from Manchester United last season but opted not to make the move permanent after spending big on his England teammate Gordon.
Mixed Start to World Cup Campaigns
The pair had a mixed start to their World Cup campaigns. Gordon started against Croatia but failed to fully impress, while Rashford shone in a cameo from the bench, scoring a late clincher in a 4-2 victory. This did not escape the attention of newspapers across Spain, raising questions about whether Barcelona signed the right Englishman.
Spanish Media Reactions
Sport
Sport pointed out that Rashford's fine start contrasted with most Barcelona players at the World Cup. They wrote: "The Manchester United loanee was the only Barcelona player to make a difference, scoring a goal to seal a 4-2 victory for England against Croatia." They noted positive signs from Frenkie de Jong for the Netherlands but did not criticize Gordon, though they suggested more was expected from Barcelona's contingent.
MisterChip
Stats-led account MisterChip highlighted the significance of the moment: "He becomes the first FC Barcelona player to score in the 2026 World Cup. He is also the FIRST Barca player to score for England in the entire history of the World Cup." Some comments questioned the post, noting Rashford was a Barcelona player in name only after the failure to exercise the purchase clause.
AS
AS provided a closer comparison between Gordon and Rashford. The report stated: "[The situation] allowed Tuchel to rotate: Gordon, who was ineffective, was out; Rashford came in. The new Barcelona signing didn't stand out... Not so [Rashford]. From a Saka pass, and with two cuts in the box, he finished the game with the fourth and final goal." The publication also praised Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, calling him "the heir becomes king" after outshining Luka Modric.
Implications for Manchester United
After Barcelona's decision, Manchester United could be in line for more money or a chance to get the best out of Rashford this season.
