Marcus Rashford's ambition of winning the Champions League has moved a step closer after Barcelona thrashed Newcastle 7-2 to reach the quarter-finals. The La Liga side secured an 8-3 aggregate victory, ending the Magpies' European run in emphatic fashion.
Although Rashford was an unused substitute in the second leg, he has played a key role in Barcelona's journey, scoring five goals and providing four assists in nine Champions League appearances. The 28-year-old joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United at the start of the season, with the deal including a £26 million option to buy.
Barcelona now face an all-Spanish quarter-final against Atletico Madrid, who progressed at Tottenham's expense. With five matches separating them from European glory, Barcelona can dream of a first Champions League triumph since 2015 — an achievement that would fulfil one of Rashford's biggest ambitions.
However, Rashford's form has dipped in recent weeks. He has not scored in his last 11 games and has started only three matches since the end of January, with manager Hansi Flick favouring attacking options such as Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski and Fermin Lopez. The timing is far from ideal as Rashford looks to secure his place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad and strengthen his case for a permanent move to Barcelona.
