Why Marcus Rashford Was Benched for Barcelona vs Getafe Despite Champions League Heroics
Marcus Rashford was left out of Barcelona’s starting line-up against Getafe on Sunday, just days after scoring twice in the Champions League win over Newcastle United.
The on-loan Manchester United forward had been tipped to start again, but coach Hansi Flick instead went with Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Ferran Torres in attack. According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the decision was a disciplinary one, as Rashford arrived late for training earlier in the day.
Flick has a strict policy on punctuality and has punished other players in the past for the same offence, including Jules Kounde, Inaki Pena, and even Raphinha. This time, Rashford was the player to pay the price.
Despite starting on the bench, Rashford was introduced at half-time and made an impact, setting up Dani Olmo for Barcelona’s third goal in their 3-0 victory. Ferran Torres had already scored twice in the first half to put Barça in control at a rain-soaked Estadi Johan Cruyff.
The win keeps Barcelona second in La Liga, just two points behind leaders Real Madrid. However, Rashford will feel he missed a big chance to cement his place in the starting eleven, especially with youngster Lamine Yamal sidelined by injury.
