Hansi Flick praises ‘fantastic’ Marcus Rashford after win against Newcastle

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick lauded Marcus Rashford after the win against Newcastle United. In Lamine Yamal’s absence, Rashford scored a brace for Barca and led his team to a 2-1 win against Newcastle at the St. James’ Park in their opening game of the UEFA Champions League on Thursday.

After a goalless first half, Rashford scored in the 58th and 67th minute to put the Catalan club in front. Anthony Gordon pulled one back for the home side in the last minute but it was not enough for any late drama.

“For me it was the first step,” Flick said of Rashford’s performance in a news conference. “He has to make the next step.

“This match, these goals here in England against Newcastle, for Barcelona in the first Champions League match this season, it’s great.

“It gives him confidence in himself. This is the most important thing.”

Meanwhile, Rashford joined Barça on a season-long loan from Manchester United but could not find the back of the net in the first four games. The German manager said he is not surprised with Rashford’s goals.

“I am not surprised [by his goals],” Flick added. “I think he’s a fantastic player. His skills are unbelievable and his finishing is unbelievable.

“I think also in the first half, he tried to create chances, but the finishing wasn’t there. In the second half it was.

“For a striker, it’s always good to score. I am really happy. He is an important player. When we spoke before the season about what we needed in the team, we felt we needed a player like him.

“When we had this chance [to sign him], I said we have to do it. He’s an outstanding player.”

Barcelona will next host Getafe in the La Liga on Sunday.