Erik ten Hag was right about Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford

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A recent insight into how FC Barcelona view Marcus Rashford has proven Erik ten Hag right about the Manchester United loanee.

After a difficult few seasons at Old Trafford, Rashford is thriving on the pitch once again.

In 12 games for Barcelona, the Englishman has found the back of the net five times and provided six assists.

Manchester United fans will likely have mixed feelings on his resurgence, especially as former manager Erik ten Hag detailed exactly what Rashford needed to do to return to his best over 12 months ago.

Erik ten Hag’s Marcus Rashford attitude claim was right

Speaking to the press prior to a meeting with Crystal Palace in September 2024, the Dutchman stated that Rashford’s attitude had to improve in order for him to perform on the pitch, as per Sky Sports.

He said: “He [Rashford] has to set his life right, his training attitude right, he has to set his match attitude right. When he sets his professionalism he will perform because he’s a class player.”

By all accounts, that is exactly what the 27-year-old has done following his loan move to Spain.

Fabrizio Romano revealed this week what those inside Barcelona think about Rashford, highlighting his ‘perfect attitude’.

He said: “So, let me say, from what I understand, the feeling internally at Barcelona – internal means board, management, technical staff, the manager and those who work closely with Hansi Flick – is that if Marcus Rashford will continue like this in every single point of view – delivering performances and perfect attitude – he will have very good chances to continue at the club beyond this season.”

Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia had a similarly positive verdict about Rashford last month, commenting on how hard the Man Utd loanee is working.

He said: “It’s been incredible, although he’s gotten us used to it in training. To do it in a match, at a time like this, imagine… He has a very good shot, I’m very happy for him, he’s working very hard and very well, and I’m glad he was able to have a match like this.”

It’s clear Rashford’s attitude has changed following his transfer, and just as Ten Hag stated, it has led to his performances improving.

Why that could not happen in Manchester is a question fans will be debating for some time, especially as it now looks like his career at Old Trafford is over.

Marcus Rashford wants to stay at Barcelona

Rashford was asked if he wanted to stay at Barcelona this week, as per ESPN.

He said: “Oh yeah, for sure. I’m enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player is an honour.”

Manchester United wanted £40m for the attacker during the 2025 summer transfer window when a potential return to Aston Villa was still possible.

The Red Devils will not earn anywhere near that amount should he join Barcelona on a permanent basis in 2026, however.

Rashford can complete a permanent transfer to Spain for a fee of around £26m thanks to an option in his loan deal.

A potential bargain given how well the first few months in Catalonia have gone for the long-time Manchester United man.