Barcelona has decided not to activate the 30 million euro buyout clause for Marcus Rashford, simultaneously returning the English forward to Manchester United.
The main cause leading to this decision is the arrival of Anthony Gordon. The fact that Barca spent 70 million euros to recruit the former Newcastle player made Rashford’s position redundant, in the context that Raphinha is still performing well in his starting role.
The club’s management stated that there is no turning back as the deadline to activate the buyout clause will expire on July 15. From a technical perspective, head coach Hansi Flick played a pivotal role in dropping Rashford.
The German strategist was particularly impressed with Gordon’s defensive capabilities and high-intensity pressing, factors that have inherently been weaknesses in the 1997-born forward’s style of play. Besides that, the age factor was also taken into consideration, as Rashford will turn 29 in October.
Financially, even though Rashford accepted a 40% wage cut, the total maintenance cost (including wages and amortization) is still equivalent to Gordon’s. A 3-month prolonged dip in form during the middle of the season was also part of the reason why the La Liga representative doubted the player.
In the end, the German strategist and his associates decided to cross his name off to focus on a long-term project with elements that better fit his philosophy. The star who developed from the Carrington academy is expected to return to Manchester United after the 2026 World Cup.
