This Sunday, FC Barcelona will play the Joan Gamper Trophy at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, where players like Joan García, Roony Bardghji and Marcus Rashford will be presented to the Balugrana fans; and precisely on this last one may fall a great responsibility before the official start of the new season.
And the commitment that the English striker could face is nothing more and nothing less than having to respond to coach Hansi Flick as the center forward against Como 1907, a Serie A team managed by Cesc Fàbregas.
It should be remembered that Robert Lewandowski will not be part of the squad due to muscle discomfort in the biceps femoris of his left leg; this was announced by the Blaugrana team this Friday. In addition, he could miss the start of the league season.
Also, the presence of Ferran Torres, who in theory is the Pole's replacement, would not be assured for the Gamper either, due to a muscle overload, which already prevented him from playing the last match of the Asian tour.
Rashford's versatility: option as center forward and on the wing
In this context, it should be remembered that, in case of playing as a center forward, this is not something unknown for the British striker, since he played those roles both at Manchester United and in the England national team.
However, considering the fact that Lewandowski and the 'Shark' are the owners, for now, of that position, the scenario for Marcus could become bigger, because expectations will be high.
Of course, the quality of the player is not in doubt for the coaching staff, so they would have no problem putting him in that position if Ferran finally cannot play against Como.
Rashford arrived at Barça to play as a left winger; for the moment, starting with the role of substitute, as a substitute, but the attacker already knows what it is to be part of the starting eleven of the Catalan team. And it is that he played 33 minutes against Vissel Kobe, 45 against FC Seoul and another 45 against Daegu FC, scoring 1 goal and giving 1 assist, apart from leaving good feelings.
Raphinha-Rashford, a duel of titans for the left wing of Barça
In this order of ideas, on the left wing Rashford has a great rival who is Raphinha and, although both are obviously teammates, they will represent a great duel to stay with the title.
At the moment, the Brazilian is the owner of the demarcation. He comes from closing a 2024/25 season with 34 goals and 25 assists, figures that earned him a place among the candidates for the Ballon d'Or that will be awarded on September 22.
Despite this, the player is aware that, in a team where meritocracy reigns, he will have to overcome his level so as not to lose his place to Marcus Rashford, a player who since his arrival in Barcelona has made clear his desire to succeed with the Blaugrana shirt.