Report: Marcus Rashford's Barcelona move sparks squad tensions

The deal, finalized on July 23, brings the 27-year-old English forward to the Camp Nou on a season-long loan with an option to buy for 35 million euros in 2026, as confirmed by posts from the official FC Barcelona account on X. However, the move has stirred controversy within the squad, threatening to disrupt the harmony under head coach Hansi Flick.

Yamal, the 18-year-old prodigy who has become a cornerstone of Barcelona's attack, reportedly feels betrayed by the club's hierarchy. Sources claim he was assured that Spain teammate Nico Williams, with whom he has played 18 matches for the national team, was the sole target to bolster the forward line.

Yamal had pushed for Williams' signing during his recent contract extension, excited by the prospect of linking up with his international colleague. However, Williams opted to stay with Athletic Club, signing a new deal until 2035, leaving Barcelona to pivot to Rashford.

"Lamine feels misled," a source close to the player told El Nacional. "He was told Nico was the priority, and now he's frustrated that the club didn't do everything possible to secure that transfer."

Yamal's discontent goes beyond the failed pursuit of Williams. The young star, who has drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi for his precocious talent, reportedly demanded to be involved in transfer decisions, much like Messi was during his time at the club. "He's expressed his anger to (president) Joan Laporta and (sporting director) Deco for not being consulted about Rashford," the source added.

Yamal isn't alone in his reservations. Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski and winger Raphinha have also raised concerns about Rashford's arrival. Lewandowski, who turns 37 in August, is reportedly worried about his playing time, given Rashford's versatility to play as a central forward or on the left.

Raphinha, meanwhile, fears the signing signals a lack of confidence in his contributions, particularly after a strong 2024-25 season where he scored 18 goals and provided 11 assists in La Liga. "Raphinha and Lewandowski have been very cold toward Rashford," El Nacional reported. "They don't believe he's the right fit and are concerned about their roles."

Barcelona's decision to bring in Rashford stems from a need for depth in attack, as Flick highlighted in May. "We need more options and quality on the wings," the German coach said, pointing to the heavy minutes logged by Yamal and Raphinha last season, both exceeding 4,500 across all competitions.

Rashford, who scored 138 goals in 429 appearances for Manchester United, offers flexibility and experience, but his recent struggles, 15 goals over two seasons at United and four in 17 games on loan at Aston Villa, have raised doubts about his ability to regain top form.

The club's official announcement on X celebrated Rashford as the first Englishman at Barcelona since Gary Lineker, but the fanbase is divided. Some see the move as a coup, with Flick praising Rashford's "fantastic" potential to add threat on the left flank. Others, however, fear the squad's unrest could derail Barcelona's ambitions in La Liga and the Champions League. "This could spark a fire that Flick can't extinguish," warned El Nacional, suggesting the dressing room tension might challenge the manager's leadership.

As Barcelona prepare for the 2025-26 season, all eyes will be on how Flick integrates Rashford and manages the egos of his star-studded squad. With Yamal's star power, Raphinha's flair, and Lewandowski's lethal finishing, the Catalans have the talent to dominate, but only if they can unite behind their new arrival.