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FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

Malaysian Paper

‘Feels like home’ Rashford seals dream move to Barcelona, inherits iconic shirt number

Ű BY DANI GIL

English forward Marcus Rashford holds up his jersey during his official presentation at the Nou Camp. – AFPPIC

M ARCUS RASHFORD is officially a Barcelona player. Three days after his arrival and having signed his contract, the English forward was unveiled by the club. He joins on loan until June 2026, with a non mandatory purchase option set at around €30 million (RM150m). “I’m where I wanted to be. I mean no disrespect to any other club, but I would’ve waited even longer if it meant joining Barca,” he admitted during a press conference held at the club’s official store, just a few metres from the Camp Nou – still far from ready to host matches. The standout moment from the presentation was the announcement that Rashford will wear the iconic No. 14 jersey, famously worn by Johan Cruyff and Thierry Henry. “I know the history behind this number. I feel a huge responsibility. I’m honoured to wear it, as Cruyff and Henry did,” he said, with Henry being one of his childhood idols. Rashford becomes only the second English player to wear the Barca shirt, nearly 40 years

Manchester United winger’s signing after Nico Williams renewed with Athletic Club. “Everyone wanted to make it happen – Laporta, Deco, and of course Flick. We’ve been in contact for a while. “I wanted to come in January, but it wasn’t possible and I was happy at Aston Villa. “I’m also really grateful for my time there. But Flick is a big reason I’m here. Everyone’s shown faith in me,” Rashford explained. Smiling, motivated, and with a clear message, the former Manchester United No. 10 laid out his ambition. “I want to win big trophies. I feel Barca is a great club. The Champions League? It’s a dream of mine. “Barca came very close last season – now we hope to take that final step.” Without a doubt, this move could be the perfect platform for Rashford to reignite the spark that dazzled fans at the start of his career – something England, and especially Thomas Tuchel, hope to see again as the 2026 World Cup approaches. – The Independent

great personality and maturity. “They’re still kids, but they understand the responsibility they carry. Last season they did well, but this year we want to do better.” One name that stood out was Lamine Yamal. “He’s a special talent. I honestly think he was already one of the best – if not the best – players in the world last season. It’ll be fun to play alongside him,” said Rashford with a smile, posing with his new shirt. Barcelona offers him a fresh start at a key point in his career. With the World Cup just a year away, a change of scenery could give him the boost he needs to make Thomas Tuchel’s squad. Although he hasn’t played in months, the Englishman insists he’s ready to embrace this new chapter. “Barca is a great club and the perfect place to rediscover my best form. I feel at home here – I think I made the right choice. I’m excited to get started and ready for the challenge.” Hansi Flick played a key role in bringing Rashford to Barcelona. The German coach pushed the sporting directors to secure the

after Gary Lineker, who recently stated that Rashford’s struggles were more about Manchester United’s institutional crisis than the player himself. “Lineker is a reference for me. I know what he achieved here, and I’d love to surpass his record. It won’t be easy – it’s a huge challenge – but I’m here to help the team. “Hopefully, I can become the club’s top English scorer, but the most important thing is to win,” he said. He also spoke about his relationship with United after coach Ruben Amorim made it clear he was not in his plans. “United has been in transition for a long time. I have nothing bad to say about the club. “It’s been a very important part of not only my career but my life. I wish them all the best and hope they’re successful in the future,” he added. Rashford met his new teammates for the first time yesterday during a training session ahead of the club’s upcoming Asian tour. “Many players have impressed me, especially the younger ones. Despite their age, they show

High stakes game

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