England international Rashford secured a surprising switch to Catalunya during the summer transfer window after being made aware that he still has no role to play for his parent club – with the second half of last season being spent with Aston Villa.
Rashford jumped at the chance to link up with the likes of Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, but is still searching for a lost spark – with inconsistent form leading to him slipping down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
The 27-year-old showed what he is capable of when netting two impressive goals at St James’ Park – one with his head and another that was rifled in off the underneath of the crossbar from 20 yards out – with said efforts seeing Barca to a 2-1 victory on Tyneside.
Rashford hopes shackles have now been shaken, after making a slow start to life with the reigning champions of Spain, with it difficult to hit the ground running when stepping out of your comfort zone. Rashford told reporters of that process: “We have a team with top players. It’s difficult to arrive in a new city, a new culture, but I’m enjoying it and I’m getting more and more comfortable. As time goes by I’ll improve my football.”
Rashford has joined Barca in order to compete for the most prestigious of honours, with the ultimate Champions League target being set. Asked about the limit of collective ambition in European competition, Rashford added: “It’s only to win it. Nothing else is on our minds. We know how tough the competition is.
“Playing for Barcelona is an amazing experience. I’ve always been a huge admirer of Barcelona. We want to win as much as possible. 100% I’m full of excitement. I’m very motivated and determined. The quality we have in the team excites me. It’s so refreshing to play with these players.”
Barca, who have made an unbeaten start to the new season, will be back in La Liga action on Sunday when playing host to Getafe. Rashford will hope to retain his starting berth as teenage wonderkid Yamal – who missed the trip to Newcastle – looks to shake off an untimely injury.
