Marcus Rashford continued his revival in sensational fashion as Barcelona thumped Olympiacos 6-1 in the Champions League. The on-loan Manchester United forward bagged a brace, inspiring the Catalan giants to a ruthless win that reignited their European campaign and cemented his place as one of Hansi Flick’s key players.
Rashford lights up the Champions League again
Barcelona produced their most complete European performance of the season as Marcus Rashford stole the show in a 6-1 demolition of Olympiacos at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. The English forward, playing as a central striker in the absence of Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski, delivered a clinical display that earned him plaudits from fans and pundits alike.
With Raphinha, Torres, and Lewandowski all unavailable, Hansi Flick placed his faith in Rashford to lead the line — and the 27-year-old didn’t disappoint. Fermin Lopez opened the scoring early before doubling the lead just before the interval. After the break, Lamine Yamal converted a penalty to make it three before Rashford took centre stage, netting twice in quick succession. Lopez then completed his hat-trick to cap off a dominant night for the Blaugrana.
Fans hail ‘Barcelona’s best player’
Social media erupted in praise for Rashford, whose confidence and sharpness have returned since joining Barcelona on loan from Manchester United. One fan wrote on X, “Marcus Rashford has been Barcelona’s best player since Raphinha got injured ngl,” while another added, “Rashford thriving at Barcelona is so beautiful to see. Go ahead and shine.”
A supporter under the handle @speeds_c summed it up perfectly: “Rashford with confidence is the best left winger in the world, there isn’t a better ball striker than him.” Even United fans expressed admiration, acknowledging that his revival in Spain could lead to a lucrative permanent move.
From being sidelined and scrutinized at Old Trafford to becoming a talismanic figure in Catalonia, Rashford’s turnaround has been nothing short of remarkable.
A new role, a new Rashford
Since his summer move, Rashford has quickly adapted to Flick’s attacking blueprint. Trusted to operate as both a left forward and a central striker, his versatility has made him indispensable. Flick’s faith in the Englishman was clear before the game when he said:
“Rashford is a good option as a No.9, but he can also play as a No.11. That’s what we thought when we signed him. He’s improved a lot in recent weeks and gives us so much.”
Rashford has now tallied five goals and five assists in just 12 appearances across all competitions for Barcelona. His resurgence has not only reignited his club career but also earned him a recall to the England national team — a testament to his renewed confidence and sharpness.
Flick’s Barcelona back to their best
For Hansi Flick, this performance was exactly the response he demanded. After back-to-back defeats against PSG and Sevilla, his side roared back to life with six goals, fluid movement, and relentless pressing. Fermin Lopez’s hat-trick and Yamal’s composed penalty added to a night where everything clicked for the Catalans.
The win also showcased the depth of Flick’s attacking options even without his star forwards. Rashford’s intelligent movement opened up space for Lopez and Yamal, while the midfield trio controlled the game with effortless precision. It was the perfect blend of energy, creativity, and clinical finishing.
All eyes on El Clásico
Barcelona’s emphatic win could not have come at a better time. The Catalans now turn their focus to Sunday’s El Clásico against Real Madrid — a game that could define their early-season momentum. Rashford, in what will be his first El Clásico, is expected to start again after his electric display against Olympiacos.
For Flick and his rejuvenated side, confidence is soaring. The 6-1 thrashing not only boosts morale but sends a clear message across Europe: Barcelona are back — and Marcus Rashford is at the heart of their resurgence.
