Marcus Rashford instantly handed bad news as Barcelona legend weighs in

Marcus Rashford will start as a bench option and have to earn his status as a starter for Barcelona, according to club legend Rivaldo. The 27-year-old forward completed his switch from Manchester United earlier this week, joining on a season-long loan with an option to buy for around £26million next summer.

Rashford enters an already-stacked attacking arsenal at Hansi Flick's disposal, featuring superstar trio Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. And while Rivaldo is a big fan of the England international, he insists that he cannot expect to immediately start games regularly after Barcelona's successful 2024/25 season.

"When a player leaves a club in a tough situation, like he did, and joins a team like Barcelona, it's only natural that the coach will use training sessions and the first few matches to get a better look at him," Rivaldo told Barcelona.

"Barcelona had a great season last year, so it's normal for him to start off on the bench.

"I believe that little by little, he'll find his rhythm, start to understand how the manager wants the team to play, get used to the training routines, and gradually settle in. Over time, he'll earn his spot.

"He's a hugely talented player - he's already proven that in one of the toughest leagues in the world. He's also an international.

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"So, I fully expect him to earn a place in Barca's starting eleven and re-establish himself as a regular in the England squad too."

While Yamal is considered the golden boy of Barcelona's current team, Raphinha established himself as one of the world's best players last season.

The former Leeds United winger scored 34 goals and provided 25 assists in 57 appearances, and Rivaldo believes Rashford will not be playing instead of him.

He added: "I think that's highly unlikely that Rashford will take Raphinha's spot, especially after the season Raphinha had last year. In my view, Raphinha is currently among the top five players in the world.

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"Right now, he's an undisputed starter at Barca and already a club icon. Everyone, the players, the coaching staff, and the whole club rate him very highly.

"What he did last season was outstanding, so without a doubt, that position is his. Of course, it's always good to have top-quality players around you.

"So yes, there will be competition, but I don't think Rashford is going to take Raphinha's place. Other opportunities will arise, and with training, the manager will likely find a way to fit them both into the team.

"But for me, Raphinha is a nailed-on starter. I don't see any chance of him being dropped from Barca's starting line-up."