Thursday, August 21, 2025

Marcus Rashford talks Laporta, Deco, Barcelona dressing room, No.14 jersey and Manchester United

Date:

FC Barcelona announced the signing of Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United and also retained the option to buy him at the end of the season. The English attacker is coming to Spain with a point to prove and resurrect his faltering career.

Rashford was unveiled yesterday as the new #14 of Barcelona, a number that Thierry Henry has worn before at the club. The Englishman will be looking to emulate the legendary Frenchman during his time wearing the Blaugrana jersey.

Now, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, new Barcelona signing Marcus Rashford spoke about a number of topics during his presentation, including Joan Laporta, Deco, trophies, the decision to come to Barcelona, the #14 jersey, and Manchester United.

Rashford talks…

BARCELONA, SPAIN - JULY 23: Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona looks on during the Unveiling of New Signing Marcus Rashford, after the announcement of a season-long loan move from Manchester United to FC Barcelona, at Camp Nou on July 23, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Marcus Rashford at his Barcelona presentation. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The 27-year-old English attacker spoke about Barcelona president Joan Laporta and Deco and how they made his arrival seamless. He said:

“I was sure about it from the beginning. It was easy. It’s a very family-oriented club. I’ve made the right decision, and I’m excited to play my first match in front of the fans. The talks were fast and smooth with President Joan Laporta and Deco. Things happen when they’re meant to, and now was the right time. I’m ready to give my best.”

Rashford was then asked about his goals at Barcelona. Here is what the on-loan Manchester United forward had to say:

“To win as many titles as possible. Barça is the perfect club to win big trophies. I’ll bring quality, personality, and help the team improve.”

The attacker then spoke about his first couple of training sessions with the team and his first two days in the Barcelona dressing room. He said:

“Many players have impressed me because there are lots of young guys who play really well, although they’re still kids in the dressing room. Flick is doing a great job, especially based on what he achieved last season. Since I arrived, I noticed that everything from last season is behind them—they’re focused on the next one and on improving. The ambition is huge. Everyone is hungry, and I’m very excited to play alongside them.”

Rashford also admitted that on a personal front, he has improved and that he is in a good place personally. He continued:

“I’ve improved a lot in the last six months, and now I’m happy.”

When asked about the choice to wear the #14 jersey, which is an iconic jersey that club legend Johan Cruyff once wore, here is what he said:

“It’s a traditional number for the club. I know it’s special. Wearing this shirt is an honor. It motivates me to give my best for a club that’s built to win.”

Finally, Rashford was asked about his parent club, Manchester United, and he remained grateful for whatever they had given him over the years. He revealed:

“The club is going through a period of change. I have nothing bad to say about United. It’s been an important part of my life and career. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to play for them. But now this is my next step, and I’m focused on it and on improving. I wish United all the best.”

A period of adaptation

As Rashford now links up with his new teammates, he looks determined and will be keen to settle in as soon as possible. The sooner he adapts to Hansi Flick’s ways, the easier it will be for him to work his way into the German coach’s plans.

Rashford with Barcelona this season, will incidentally be eyeing his first-ever league title. He has never won it during his time at Manchester United, and let’s wait and see if he can emerge as a protagonist in his chase for trophies.

Dinesh K
Dinesh K
Ever since I wore my school team jersey and tried to emulate my idol, El Capitan, Sergio Ramos, my passion for this beautiful game has been on a rise. A passionate follower of the sport, I watch both the Premier League and La Liga keenly, without necessarily supporting any team and just appreciating the beauty of the game. It’s been a beautiful journey and I hope to transcend the same emotions through my writing.

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