Marcus Rashford reveals manager conversation encouraged Manchester United exit for Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona have the option to sign Rashford permanently for £26m next summer

Marcus Rashford revealed the opportunity to play under Hansi Flick was one of the key reasons behind his decision to join Barcelona.

Barcelona have always been the forward’s first-choice and he has got his wish, after talks with Flick further cemented his desire to move to Spain.

"One of the reasons I’m here is because the conversations I had with [Flick] were positive,” Rashford said.

“What he did last season was terrific. In his career he's proved he's one of the top coaches. He led such a young team to a very successful season and came back to pre-season wanting to do more.”

Rashford will become the first British player to play for Barcelona since Gary Lineker in 1989. He has been given the No14 shirt, following in the footsteps of Thierry Henry.

Speaking for the first time after his move was made official, Rashford thanked the Barcelona fans and declared it “feels like home”.

Explaining the appeal of joining Barcelona, Rashford said: "I always try to make decisive actions, fast, dynamic plays.

“I like good football. I've always been a fan of watching Barcelona play from a young age like most Barcelona fans. It's going to be a joy for me to play here."

He added: "I'm very excited. It is a club where people's dreams come true, they win big prizes.

"What the club stands for means a lot for me. I feel like I am at home and a big factor in my choice to come here because it is a family place and a good place for good players to showcase their skills."