Barcelona exit Copa del Rey as Spanish media criticise Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford has faced intense scrutiny from the Spanish press after failing to inspire a late turnaround as Barcelona crashed out of the Copa del Rey against Atletico Madrid.
Valiant effort falls short
Hansi Flick’s side produced a spirited response to their heavy 4-0 first-leg deficit, winning 3-0 at the Nou Camp on Tuesday evening.
However, the Catalan giants ultimately fell short of an improbable comeback, losing 4-3 on aggregate to Diego Simeone’s men.
Marc Bernal was the standout performer for the hosts, scoring twice in a senior match for the first time in his career.
Raphinha was also on target, converting a penalty just before half-time to give Barcelona hope.
Rashford struggles on return
The England international, making only his second appearance since returning from injury, was introduced as a 64th-minute substitute.
With Barca leading 2-0, Rashford was brought on to provide the attacking spark needed to force extra time.
Despite the team adding a third goal with less than 20 minutes remaining, the forward struggled to influence proceedings against a stubborn Atletico defence.
Media reaction
Spanish outlet AS was scathing in its assessment of the forward’s contribution from the bench.
The publication claimed the substitutions made by Flick failed to maintain the momentum generated by the starting XI.
“The reinforcements Flick brought on, Rashford and [Dani] Olmo, were useless,” AS reported.
The report added that centre-back Ronald Araujo received no service despite being deployed as a makeshift striker in the closing stages.
Mundo Deportivo offered a slightly more measured but equally critical verdict, labelling the attacker’s performance as “shy”.
“He could have helped more in the final minutes with his shooting power and crosses, but his decision-making wasn’t very sharp,” the paper noted.
Barcelona must now refocus on their La Liga campaign, where they recently capitalised on Real Madrid’s domestic struggles.
