Rashford talks Lamine, Raphinha, Pedri, Flick, title ambitions – ‘This team can win it all’ | OneFootball

In an exclusive interview with SPORT, Barcelona’s summer signing Marcus Rashford shared his thoughts on joining the club and his ambitions for the season ahead.

The English forward made it clear that he believes this Barça side has everything it takes to dominate on all fronts.

“This team has the foundations to achieve it. Otherwise, they would not have won three trophies last season. The mentality and motivation are high; I don’t see any reason not to win all the trophies we play.

“For me, this team is ready to win. I just want to help however I can. The season is long and the football is unpredictable, but the team and the coaching staff have the kind of strong mentality to face any challenge,” Rashford said.

The forward has quickly settled into life at Barcelona and is thrilled to be part of a talented squad. Rashford expressed admiration for the new generation, praising their maturity and confidence on the big stage.

“The main reason I play is to win. And to win I need to be happy, because that’s how I play my best football,” he explained.

Rashford full of praise for Yamal and Pedri

Rashford did not hold back when describing his experience playing alongside 18-year-old Lamine Yamal.

“As a person, Lamine is an 18-year-old boy, always funny, laughing, playing jokes with others. And as a footballer, he is a top talent. The most surprising thing is how mature he is for his age. How he thinks and plays. He is well above his age.”

When asked if Yamal could win the Ballon d’Or, Rashford was clear. “Yes, sure. If you don’t win it this year, you’ll win it in the future.

Marcus Rashford made his La Liga debut against Mallorca. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

“Dembele, Raphina, they all deserve it. It’s hard to pick one, but they’re all mature and have had a fantastic season. Lamine is so young that he is sure to win it.”

Rashford also praised Pedri, highlighting his intelligence and vision. “If you didn’t know his age, you’d think he’s 28 or 29 years old because he’s very mature and understands the game perfectly.

“He plays at his own pace and that makes it easy for strikers to be with him.”

The role of Flick and Rashford’s versatility

The England star was equally complimentary about his new manager, Hansi Flick. “He’s very communicative and direct, which is important, especially with a lot of young players.

“The direction has to be clear. Their motivation is high to do better than last season, which is why I think the team will be successful. He’s a special coach who knows how to work with special players.”

Flick has already tested Rashford in both wide and central attacking roles. Rashford himself is happy to adapt.

“I can play in both positions, but in the end, what matters is to help score and assist. I don’t care what position he plays.

“I think the players around me are very good and make good passes, so if I make good runs and at the right time, I can always create and score goals.”

When asked about Barça’s chances in Europe, he responded with confidence. “Yes, sure. Not only the Champions League, but everything. This team had a great season last year. Now it’s about forgetting it, trying to repeat and improve,” he noted.