Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has challenged Marcus Rashford to take his game to the next level, after being asked if he could sign the Manchester United loanee on a permanent deal. He was also praised by one of Barcelona’s defenders, and he also explored their trade.
The Blaugrana brought in one player in Joao Cancelo on loan in January, despite talk that Flick wanted to sign a full-back. The only move was the exit of Marc-Andre ter Stegen on loan to Girona, although he may be returning. Flick said he was satisfied with the business done.
“We are happy with this situation. I didn’t like that Dro left, but there was nothing I could do. These are the situations in football, business. I am happy because if everyone is at a high level, it will be difficult to choose the starters. From Barcelona’s point of view. We did our job well.”
Flick wants more from Marcus Rashford
Barcelona reportedly have an option to make their deal with Manchester United permanent for €30m, although there have been suggestions the Blaugrana could try to negotiate that figure. Flick said there is still a lot to come from the England player.
“I think he has a lot of potential to show. We always focus on goals, on the last pass, because this is one of the ways you can measure things, and he is good at that. Because there is always room for improvement. But with his speed and skill, he can give us a lot more.”
“I’m happy with what he gives us, but he has a lot of potential. I want everyone to do their best. It’s about attitude, attitude during training… That’s what we want to see. Always striving to be better.”
Ferran Torres is one of the players he is competing against for minutes going forward, and he only has 18 months left on his contract. Flick was asked about his possible renewal.
“We have very good players and the atmosphere is amazing. Teammates, teammates and friends. If we manage it well, it will be good. I am happy for all the players, but this is a team decision. We have to think about the future. It is important to keep the players and consider how they can help us going forward. That is the job of Deco.”
Recommended by Alejandro Balde
One of the most admired players this season is Lamine Yamal, but the German coach is focusing on left-back Alejandro Balde.
“He plays good football. There are players who play at their level. Maybe I can highlight Balde. What he is doing is very good, but he has the potential to improve. He was doing very well at the center, but also outside. That is what we are working on. He can be in the national team again; he is doing a good job.”
🚨 Marc-André Ter Stegen has torn a muscle that may be affected. He is still waiting for test results, but he may need surgery. [@JijantesFC] pic.twitter.com/YvODWL3PmF
– barcacentre (@barcacentre) February 2, 2026
Flick goes slow with Gavi
Midfielder Gavi is expected to return to training with the rest of his teammates this week, and possibly work this month. The midfielder has been out for the past four months after undergoing meniscus surgery.
“We will see, step by step. The most important thing for him is to stay calm and take it one step at a time. He has a very long career and wants to play for many years. It is important that he is in shape, but step by step. We are looking at him.”
One of the problems facing Flick is the absence of Raphinha, who suffered an injury against Elche. He will not be available for their match against Albacete in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday at 21:00 CEST.
