Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has admitted the club will miss Marcus Rashford after deciding not to sign the Manchester United loanee on a permanent basis. The Catalan club chose against activating a £26 million option for the winger and instead moved to sign Anthony Gordon for £70m.

Barca choose against permanent Rashford move

Flick has accepted that Barcelona will feel Rashford’s absence after the club opted not to complete a permanent transfer for the United loanee. The Spanish heavyweights had the chance to sign the 28-year-old winger for £26 million this summer. However, the Blaugrana eventually decided not to trigger that clause. Instead, they chose to add to their attacking options by bringing in Gordon from Newcastle in a deal worth around £70m.

Flick pays tribute to departing attacker

Flick spoke about Rashford’s exit during his post-match press conference after Barcelona’s pre-season friendly against Birmingham City on Friday night. The manager was open about how highly he regards the England international.

“What I can say about Marcus is I appreciate a lot to work with him,” Flick admitted. “Sometimes it’s not always that you do know what happens with players who are on loan.

“I think our situation is not easy for that. But I appreciate working with him a lot; he’s a fantastic player and a fantastic person. I think also the team miss him, I will miss him, but it’s life, this is what we have to accept.”

Rashford shares gratitude after productive spell

Rashford enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Camp Nou last season, establishing himself as an important figure in attack. The forward recorded 14 goals and 11 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions for the Catalan side. After the decision not to keep him, Rashford formally thanked the club and its supporters on Thursday.

“I’m very grateful to everyone at the club for making my time here such a positive and memorable experience,” Rashford said. “I’ve enjoyed every moment and will take many special memories with me. I wish the club and all its supporters the very best of luck and every success in the season ahead. Visca el Barca.”

Returning to United for pre-season

With his time in Spain now over, Rashford is set to report back to United for pre-season training. The academy graduate will return once his extended break following his participation at the World Cup comes to an end. Meanwhile, Barcelona are already deep into their own summer preparations. Flick’s side played out a 2-2 draw with Birmingham at St Andrew’s on Friday night before losing in the penalty shootout.