Marcus Rashford’s adventure at FC Barcelona has just taken an unexpected turn. The English forward, on loan from Manchester United, has not only rediscovered his form but is now drawing heavyweight comparisons.
United legend Dwight Yorke claimed that Rashford has the ability to “take the crown” from Lamine Yamal as the team’s best player and build his own legacy at the Camp Nou, on par with figures like Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho or Xavi.

At 28, Rashford has made a powerful impact with six goals and eight assists in his first 16 matches as a Barça player. According to Yorke, that level shows that the forward “has always been a fantastic player,” but needed to leave an environment where he no longer felt happy.

“If you’re not in a happy place, you can’t perform. Now Rashford is enjoying his football, and it shows in every game,” Yorke said, even questioning why Barça still haven’t exercised the 35-million-euro buy option included in his loan.

Real Competition for Yamal or Just Early Euphoria?

The comment that shook the Barça ecosystem was blunt: “Rashford can be the number one in the team, even ahead of Lamine Yamal.”
Yorke argues that Yamal, despite his immense talent, is still in a full development stage, while Rashford is at the peak of his career.
“He’s at his physical and mental prime. He can be as good as he wants,” he insisted.

Inside Barça, the coexistence of both profiles is viewed positively: Rashford’s explosiveness and maturity paired with a Yamal who already influences matches like a veteran despite being just 18. But Yorke’s words add a new layer to the conversation: the real possibility of the Englishman becoming the team’s main attacking star if he maintains this level.

A Doubtful United and a Reborn Rashford

The forward’s performances in Spain have sparked a separate debate in England: did Manchester United make a mistake letting him go?
The club is already watching other ex-players, like Scott McTominay —now a Serie A champion with Napoli— shine away from Old Trafford. Yorke didn’t miss the chance to underscore that Rashford is “the most talented player United had, man for man.”

Meanwhile, Barça are laying the groundwork to activate the permanent transfer. In the dressing room, no one hides the fact that Rashford has adapted quickly, feels liberated and is already influencing the team’s attacking structure.

The big question now is whether he can sustain this level… and whether he is truly ready to challenge the footballing reign of Lamine Yamal, the jewel Barça sees as its undeniable future.
The debate is on, and as always, Camp Nou will be the judge.