Ahead of Thursday night’s European classic between Barcelona and Manchester United, Spanish giants boss Xavi has named Marcus Rashford as one of Europe’s most dangerous players.
It was not hyperbole, as all inside the Nou Camp will confirm that the full-time whistle was blown in the 2-2 draw in the first leg of the Europa League play-off.
Rashford wreaked havoc in a lethal second-half display in which he scored one goal and played a big part in another – and is firmly on course for his best ever season in football.
The England forward’s goal against Barcelona took his tally in all competitions to 22 in a sensational season, and is a game away from his best return.
“He’s practically unplayable at the moment,” former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes said on BT Sport.
“Nobody can handle him. Wherever he’s playing, left, right or down the middle, he just looks unplayable.”
Former England goalkeeper Rob Green, added: “Rashford is on fire right now.
“He was probably the difference between the two teams.”
Rashford’s form since the World Cup has been particularly incredible.
The 25-year-old has scored 14 goals in his last 16 games, while his strike against Barcelona – a smart finish from close range – was his fourth in five Europa League games.
“Marcus Rashford is on fire,” tweeted former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand. “He’s at a new level, a level he’s never been at, a level of consistency he’s never been able to maintain. .
“A fit, focused, direct, confident, lethal and powerful Rashford is not to be messed with.”
Rashford’s home crowd was similarly enthralled by his display.
“Ten Haig has turned Rashford into a monster,” Michael commented on Twitter, while Caden added: “Bold statement but I’m saying it, Rashford is the best striker in the world.
“He’s had a tough couple of seasons at United but he’s come into his element this season. Scored in virtually every game, whether it was at the Camp Nou on a Thursday night or at Elland Road on a cold Sunday afternoon.”
Thursday night highlighted just how much Rashford has in terms of goals.
He played a huge part in Manchester United’s second, running inside a defender from a small corner before driving the ball across the face of goal to deflect off Jules Conde and into the back of the net.
Rashford’s pace often gave Barcelona’s defense nightmares and Kaunde was lucky not to be sent off when he tripped the frontman as he raced towards goal with a long ball.
Should Conde have been let go?
For United boss Erik ten Hague, that moment was far more influential in the final outcome of the game, with the home Second League next Thursday.
“I think it was a clear foul on Rashi (Rashford),” he told BT Sport. “You can argue whether it’s inside or outside the box. If it’s (outside), it’s a red card.
“It has a huge impact not only on this game but on this round. A referee cannot make a mistake like that.”
Rashford also felt United should have at least been awarded a free-kick.
“I didn’t see it back, but I don’t understand why the linesman or the referee thought I was going there?” he added.
“I touched it past him, my foot was in front of the ball and it hit my leg. That’s clear contact and 100 per cent foul.”
