Flick asks Rashford to make more from chances
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has challenged Marcus Rashford to be more ruthless in front of goal after the on-loan forward scored his sixth goal for the club in Sunday’s 3-1 LaLiga victory over Elche.
Rashford, who joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United in the summer, sealed the win with a precise finish in the second half after Fermín López’s assist. The 28-year-old has now registered 12 goal contributions in 14 appearances this season — the most of any Barcelona player under Flick.
“When you see the chances he has, one or two more goals would be good, also for him,” Flick told reporters. “But we can be happy with him, of course. He’s very important for the team — I’m happy he’s showing his quality at this level.”
The German coach, who has emphasized attacking efficiency since his arrival, praised Rashford’s work rate and influence but underlined the need for sharper execution in front of goal as Barcelona continue their pursuit of Real Madrid at the top of the table.
Rashford, meanwhile, admitted his decision-making could have been better despite scoring in the win.
“I just try to do the right things on the pitch,” Rashford said. “Even today, I could have had more assists or goals — sometimes the decision to shoot or pass wasn’t right. But the team won, and that’s what matters most.”
Barcelona’s victory came courtesy of first-half goals from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, before Elche’s Rafa Mir reduced the deficit. Rashford’s late strike ensured a comfortable finish for Flick’s side, who bounced back from last week’s defeat to Real Madrid to stay within five points of their rivals.
Flick also provided an update on 17-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, who continues to manage a persistent groin issue.
“His injury is something he has to handle carefully,” Flick said. “He’s very disciplined — training, treatment, everything. It’s not over yet, but he’s managing it well.”
The German coach noted that while Barcelona showed improvement, there were still areas requiring refinement ahead of upcoming away fixtures against Club Brugge in the Champions League and Celta Vigo in LaLiga.
“I saw many things we did well but also some things we can do better,” Flick said. “We created chances but didn’t use them as efficiently as we could. Still, three points, more confidence — now we move forward.”
Rashford’s form has been a bright spot for Barcelona this season, offering pace, directness, and composure in Flick’s high-pressing system. His resurgence in Spain could prove crucial both for his club ambitions and for his bid to reclaim a regular role with England ahead of next summer’s European Championship.