Gary Lineker defended Marcus Rashford over his poor spell at Manchester United and believes that he will succeed at Barcelona. The England international is on the verge of sealing a season-long loan deal to the Spanish champions, in what many see as a bold attempt to reignite his career after a challenging spell at Old Trafford.

• Rashford set to join Barcelona
• Had a turbulent time at Manchester United
• Lineker believes he will succeed in Spain

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  According to reports from , the deal includes an option to make the transfer permanent next year. Barcelona will reportedly cover Rashford’s full salary during the loan period, which is estimated to be around €350,000 per week.

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  WHAT LINEKER SAID

  Lineker, who famously donned the Barcelona jersey himself in the late 1980s, has thrown his support behind Rashford amid growing scrutiny surrounding the forward’s performances in recent months.

  "He (Rashford) will do great. He seems to be in the right frame of mind," he told "I think this is a great challenge. They have got brilliant players. They are a tough team. But there are so many games they are playing."

  Despite boasting a formidable attack, Barcelona’s need for attacking depth is evident. Lineker pointed out that while Lewandowski remains productive, his age is beginning to show.

  "They have got a stable front three, in Raphinha, Lewandowski and Yamal. But they can't keep playing the three players every game," he said. "And Lewandowski is past his best nearly now. He is remarkable for what he is achieving at this age. I think this is a good signing for Barcelona, and if Marcus can rediscover his best."

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Lineker questioned the culture at United, suggesting the club might be part of the issue rather than the players.

  "Let's look at the players who have left Manchester United. They have done unbelievably well, everywhere," he said. "So, there is something wrong at Manchester United. The players who have got away from there have generally succeeded. At Villa, he was terrific. And he can do the same sort of thing at Barcelona. I hope so."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA & RASHFORD?

  With the deal nearing completion and just final paperwork remaining, all signs point to Rashford embarking on a new chapter in his footballing journey. For Barcelona, it's a strategic investment in a player with untapped potential, whereas the English forward will look to silence his critics and make a case for himself ahead of Thomas Tuchel before the 2026 World Cup.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News