Marcus Rashford outshines Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon in England win
Marcus Rashford came off the bench to score and upstage new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon during England’s World Cup victory over Croatia in Dallas.
Manager Thomas Tuchel opted to start the former Newcastle United winger on the left flank for the Group L opener.
However, the £70m arrival struggled to make a meaningful impact before being replaced by his international team-mate.
The Manchester United forward immediately seized his opportunity, netting a game-clinching fourth goal in the 85th minute.
Spanish media scrutinise forward selection
The stark contrast in performances between the two attackers immediately drew intense scrutiny from the Spanish press.
Gordon recently completed a high-profile move to the Nou Camp, a transfer that effectively ended the Catalan club’s interest in signing Rashford permanently following a previous loan spell.
Barcelona daily newspaper La Vanguardia highlighted the differing contributions of the two English internationals.
Tuchel opted for Gordon from the start, but the new Barcelona signing was very subdued.
He barely touched the ball and failed to complete either of his two dribbles in the first half.
Bellingham commands midfield in Texas
Fellow regional publications El Periodico and Las Razon echoed the sentiment regarding the contrasting fortunes of the wide players.
Both outlets suggested the national team substitution highlighted the shifting dynamics of Barcelona’s recent summer transfer business.
Meanwhile, the Madrid-based sports daily Marca turned its attention to a different standout star of the national side.
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham scored the third goal of the evening shortly after the half-time interval.
The Spanish newspaper lavished praise on the playmaker for a commanding display that dictated the tempo in the United States.
Texas saw the best version of Jude Bellingham.
The Englishman resembled the player from his first season at Real Madrid.
The resounding opening victory provides Tuchel’s squad with crucial momentum as they progress through the group stages of the tournament.
