Marcus Rashford has revealed that conversations with Hansi Flick were a key factor in his decision to leave Manchester United for Barcelona. The 27-year-old was officially presented as a Barcelona player on Wednesday after completing a season-long loan deal, with the option for a permanent move next summer for £26 million.
Rashford, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, was left out of Ruben Amorim's plans at Old Trafford. Barcelona have long been his first-choice destination, and talks with Flick confirmed his desire to move to Spain.
“One of the reasons I’m here is because the conversations I had with [Flick] were positive,” Rashford said. “What he did last season was terrific. In his career he's proved he's one of the top coaches. He led such a young team to a very successful season and came back to pre-season wanting to do more.”
Rashford becomes the first British player to play for Barcelona since Gary Lineker in 1989. He has been given the No14 shirt, previously worn by Thierry Henry. Speaking after his move, Rashford said: “I always try to make decisive actions, fast, dynamic plays. I like good football. I've always been a fan of watching Barcelona play from a young age like most Barcelona fans. It's going to be a joy for me to play here.”
“I feel like I am at home and a big factor in my choice to come here because it is a family place and a good place for good players to showcase their skills,” he added.
