Marcus Rashford has received widespread praise from Spanish media after an impressive performance in his first La Liga start for Barcelona since January 3. The Manchester United loanee played a key role in Barcelona's 3-0 victory over Mallorca at the Nou Camp, which extended their lead at the top of the table to four points.
Rashford was given the opportunity due to Raphinha's absence and made the most of it. His shot in the 29th minute was saved but fell kindly for Robert Lewandowski to open the scoring. Lamine Yamal added a second shortly after the hour mark, and Marc Bernal sealed the win with his first senior goal seven minutes from time.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo described Rashford's display as 'hyperactive' and praised him for energising the team after a slow start. They noted he was 'by far, one of Barca's most purposeful players' and 'assumed attacking responsibility when the game looked its worst'. El Desmarque commended Rashford and Yamal for rousing Barcelona 'from their siesta'.
AS acknowledged Rashford's improved form throughout the season, while Barca Universal awarded him an 8.5/10 rating, calling him 'perhaps Barcelona's most potent threat in the first half'. Football Espana gave him a 7/10 but said he was 'Barcelona's best attacker' and unlucky not to score. Barca Blaugranes credited him as the brightest and most active attacker.
Rashford received a standing ovation from the home fans when he was substituted in the second half, underscoring his impact on the match.
