Following Marcus Rashford’s standout performance in El Clásico, many observers believe Barcelona would be making a mistake if they let him return to Manchester United. The 28-year-old English forward’s loan spell at FC Barcelona is nearing its end, but his impressive form throughout the season has prompted serious consideration from the Catalan club about activating the €30 million purchase option.
Former Barcelona player and manager Ronald Koeman has weighed in on the matter, offering a candid assessment of what the club should do. “If Barcelona allow him to go back to Manchester United after this loan, I think they will regret it enormously. In today’s market, €30 million for a player with his attributes, numbers, and experience—that’s an absolute robbery,” the Dutchman stated.
Koeman was particularly effusive about Rashford’s impact in El Clásico. “Rashford terrifies opponents. Madrid looked scared every time he turned and ran at them. Against Real Madrid, he completely destroyed them on the counterattack. His pace, aggression, directness, and confidence—Madrid simply couldn’t handle him. Every time Barcelona pushed forward, he was the danger. He scored a free kick in El Clásico, stretched the entire defensive line, created numerical advantages, pressed relentlessly, and made runs behind their backline. And still there are people within the club doubting whether to pay €30 million? That seems insane to me,” he concluded.