Hansi Flick has explained why Marcus Rashford started on the substitutes' bench for Barcelona's Champions League match against Chelsea, citing Ferran Torres' recent goal-scoring form and Rashford's illness as key factors. Rashford had been sidelined through illness for Barcelona's La Liga win over Athletic Club last weekend, which influenced the manager's decision.
Torres, who scored twice in that victory, was handed a starting berth at Stamford Bridge. However, he squandered a golden chance in the opening period, and Barcelona went into half-time trailing 3-0 after an own goal from Jules Kounde, a red card for Ronald Araujo, and strikes from Estevao Willian and Liam Delap. Rashford replaced Torres at the break but struggled to make an impact as Chelsea extended their lead.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Flick explained: 'Ferran scored two goals on Saturday – and Marcus had been out for three or four days due to his injury. But he's ready to play at any moment.' Earlier this week, Flick also praised Rashford's quality, saying: 'I'm really very happy he is back. I've followed him his whole career... I was impressed about him, with his quality.'
The decision to make Rashford's loan permanent is unlikely to rest with Flick, but the 28-year-old has 13 goal contributions this season, suggesting he is doing everything possible to trigger the £26million buy option in his loan deal. Meanwhile, Manchester United, who loaned Rashford to Barcelona, struggled to find the net against 10-man Everton, highlighting their need for a forward.
