One of the decisions the sporting directorate must make in the coming days is whether to keep Marcus Rashford. Deco and Flick have to decide whether Barcelona will pay the 30 million buy option they agreed with Manchester United or look for alternatives on the market to sign a forward who can operate effectively on the left wing. For several weeks now, Deco has been exploring possible replacements for the Englishman.
It is a complex decision because it directly affects both the sporting and financial sides of the club. From a financial perspective, beyond the 30 million price tag of the buyout clause, Rashford’s salary is also very high. The impact on Financial Fair Play is significant. The conditions are already agreed, and it is clear that United will not lower the buy option. Rashford could take a pay cut, but under the new terms he would already be earning less than he did in Manchester.
Meanwhile, the player is making his case on the pitch. His goal against Getafe last weekend is a strong argument in favor of Barça deciding to sign him. Rashford’s form had dipped in recent weeks, which led the club to put the execution of the buy option on hold-something that had been taken for granted back in December.
Rashford’s desire is to stay at Barcelona. He has been clear about it for a long time, and in recent matches he has started scoring again. He has netted three goals in his last six games. He is putting pressure on the club to make his signing permanent. He still has five matches left to continue proving that he deserves a place at Barça next season.
Flick makes the decision
Hansi Flick will carry significant weight in the final call. The coach must assess whether he wants a substitute who costs the club that much money. Because there should be no illusions: Rashford would continue to be Raphinha’s backup, and signing a reserve at that price requires absolute conviction. Flick and Deco will meet to define the situation.
“He played a great game. This is what we want to see from him. I’m very happy about his goal because it’s important for us, and it’s important that he contributes,” Flick said about the Briton after the match against Getafe.