Barcelona transfer news: “No chance” – Rivaldo issues warning to Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford’s move to Barcelona for the 2025-26 season has already sparked plenty of debate, including from one of the club’s most iconic figures. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Brazilian legend and former Barcelona star Rivaldo shared his thoughts on the arrival of the English forward.

Rashford joined the Catalan side on loan from Manchester United, with an option to buy set at £26m (R$194m). The 27-year-old made his debut in a pre-season friendly against Vissel Kobe on Sunday.

Rivaldo on Rashford’s adaptation at Barcelona

The England international featured for 33 minutes after coming on in the second half and registered a single shot on target. Still adjusting to his new surroundings, Rashford is hoping for a fresh start after a difficult campaign at Old Trafford.

Rivaldo believes the forward has all the tools to succeed in La Liga: "He has everything to stand out, especially with the great coach he’ll have by his side. That will help him a lot in his development."

He added: "It’s a different league to the English one. I think he’ll have more opportunities, more chances to show his quality and achieve something big there."

However, the Brazilian also struck a note of caution, suggesting Rashford may need time to settle.
"Barcelona had a great season last year, so it’s normal for him to start on the bench," he explained.
"But little by little, he’ll get to grips with things, understand what the manager wants, learn the dynamics in training and adapt. In time, he will earn his place."

Raphinha rivalry and Rashford’s role in Barca’s attack

Rashford is expected to feature mainly on the left wing — his preferred position — but he is also capable of playing through the middle, a role he occasionally filled at United and during a loan spell at Aston Villa when Ollie Watkins was dropped.

Despite this versatility, competition for places is fierce. The England man will have to displace Raphinha, who had an outstanding 2024-25 season with 34 goals and 25 assists. Rivaldo, for his part, was full of praise for his compatriot.

"For me, Raphinha is one of the five best players in the world right now. I don’t see any chance of him losing his place in the starting XI."

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, head coach Hansi Flick is expected to make full use of his squad depth. Rashford will be competing for minutes alongside Ferran Torres—likely a back-up for Robert Lewandowski—and 18-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal, who operates on the right.

This article was originally published on T rivela.