Marcus Rashford was dropped from Barcelona’s starting XI for their La Liga clash with Getafe after reportedly arriving late to a team meeting, despite scoring a brace in their recent Champions League win over Newcastle. Manager Hansi Flick continues to enforce strict discipline.
Marcus Rashford’s impressive Champions League performance against Newcastle United seems to have been overshadowed by disciplinary issues, as the England international was dropped for Barcelona’s La Liga clash with Getafe on Sunday. The Manchester United loanee had scored a brilliant brace in midweek to help Barcelona secure a 2-1 win at St. James’ Park, but his reported lateness to a Sunday morning team meeting led to his exclusion from the starting XI for the match against Getafe.
Rashford’s Champions League Heroics Forgotten
Rashford’s double against Newcastle had placed him in the spotlight as one of Barcelona’s heroes for the night, but his failure to adhere to manager Hansi Flick’s strict punctuality rules quickly dampened the excitement surrounding his performance. According to Mundo Deportivo, Rashford arrived a little late to the team’s Sunday morning meeting, which led to his punishment by Flick, who left him on the bench for the Getafe match.
It’s a harsh reminder that, under Flick, no player is immune to discipline, regardless of recent performances.
Hansi Flick’s No-Nonsense Approach
Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, has built a reputation for enforcing strict rules regarding punctuality, and Rashford is not the first to feel the wrath of the German coach for being late. In the past, players like Jules Kounde, Inaki Pena, and even captain Raphinha have been punished for similar offenses. Flick’s no-nonsense approach underscores his commitment to maintaining discipline within the squad, regardless of the player’s standing or recent contributions.
For Rashford, this represents a critical moment to prove that his place in Barcelona’s starting lineup is earned, not given, and that he can meet the high standards set by his manager.
A Point to Prove for Rashford
Rashford had not set the world alight at Barcelona prior to his standout performance in the 2-1 win over Newcastle. That match demonstrated his potential and ability to make a real impact for the Catalan giants. However, this recent setback leaves the 27-year-old with a point to prove in his next opportunity. Flick will expect Rashford to bounce back from this minor disciplinary issue with an even greater determination to showcase his talent.
As a Manchester United academy graduate, Rashford is no stranger to pressure, but this new challenge under Flick’s watchful eye at Barcelona will test his professionalism and resilience.
Barcelona Chasing Real Madrid in La Liga
After the Getafe game, Barcelona’s focus will return to their La Liga commitments as they look to close the gap on arch-rivals Real Madrid, who have been dominant in the early stages of the season. Barcelona has the chance to make up some ground in the coming weeks, with fixtures against Real Oviedo and Real Sociedad offering opportunities to gather points and regain momentum in the league.
Flick’s approach, while stern, has been effective in instilling a sense of discipline and order at the club, and Rashford’s ability to respond positively will be a key storyline for Barcelona’s season.
