Marcus Rashford unveiled as new Barcelona player

PARIS (Agencies): Marcus Rashford was officially unveiled as a new Barcelona player on Wednesday, completing his temporary loan move from Manchester United. “I feel like I’m at home,” said Rashford, who was also confirmed to wear No. 14 for the club – a number worn by one of his idols, Thierry Henry, during his time with the Blaugrana as part of Pep Guardiola’s historic side. For Rashford, the move offers a much-needed fresh start away from recent struggles at his boyhood club. It was clear at the start of summer that, barring a dramatic turnaround, door to any potential Manchester United return was firmly shut. A hamstring injury also cut short his loan spell at Aston Villa, where he managed 9 goal contributions in 17 appearances. It was enough to draw praise from pundits who labelled it a ‘comeback’ for the 27-year-old.

For Barcelona, the move offers little risk. It is a loan with an option, not an obligation, to make the move permanent for €35 million. All of Rashford’s reported €14m gross wages, however, will be covered by Barça, in addition to potential bonuses, as per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. To show his desire to play for Barcelona, Rashford accepted a 15% pay cut – allowing United to finally remove his wages from their books, as the club continues to manage its own financial issues. Barcelona have sealed all the documents of Rashford deal, set to land in Spain. Understand Barça will pay €14m gross as salary coverage plus bonuses linked to appearances. Marcus takes 15% pay cut and Man Utd will not cover his salary.

For United, the decision to send Rashford to the ‘bomb squad’ came after new manager Ruben Amorim made it clear there was no way back for the player in his plans. That message was reinforced when Rashford’s No. 10 shirt was handed to new signing Matheus Cunha. As United brace for a season without European football, Rashford will be back on the UEFA Champions League stage – with Barcelona considered early contenders. The task for Rashford is now clear: aim to prove himself playing for the Spanish champions. The move also presents a chance to solidify his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the FIFA World Cup next summer. Criticised in recent years for his inconsistency, he now has the chance to go from one football giant to another – an opportunity few players are ever afforded.