Rashford singled out after Barcelona lose to Real Madrid in El Clasico
Marcus Rashford’s first-ever El Clasico appearance has drawn mixed reactions from the Spanish media after Barcelona suffered a 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday.
Goals from Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe sealed victory for Los Blancos, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to five points.
Despite the loss, Rashford, on loan from Manchester United was one of the few bright sparks for a depleted Barcelona side.
Rashford earns praise for his assist and work rate
The England international set up Fermin Lopez’s equaliser in the 38th minute after a sharp run and clever cut-back from the left flank, his most notable contribution before being moved to a central role following Ferran Torres’ substitution.
Spanish daily AS commended Rashford’s performance, describing it as solid given the occasion and pressure of his debut in Spanish football’s biggest fixture.
“The Englishman had a good performance in his first Clasico,” the outlet wrote. “He set up Fermin to equalize and worked hard in the pressing.”
Sport also took a positive view, praising Rashford’s adaptation since joining Barcelona and highlighting how his inclusion in the starting lineup for such a high-profile clash reflects the club’s growing trust in him.
“Rashford is living the dream,” the paper said before kickoff. “A golden opportunity for the British icon to show the world that he’s back and on the right path.”
Mixed reviews from other outlets
However, Mundo Deportivo offered a more critical assessment, labeling the 26-year-old’s display “baffling.”
“His smart assist to Fermin didn’t fix a match in which he seemed capable of creating more danger than he did,” the publication noted. “He didn’t make the most of his power when he had space. As a No. 9, he was worse than as a winger.”
Barcelona’s attacking struggles were compounded by the absence of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Gavi, and Dani Olmo.
Still, Rashford’s energy and involvement were among the few positives for manager Hansi Flick, who recently stated he was pleased to see the forward “enjoying his football again.”
