Rashford Benched After Lateness; Transfer Fee Standoff

Marcus Rashford was left out of Barcelona’s starting XI for the 3-0 LaLiga win over Getafe after reportedly arriving about two minutes late to a pre-match meeting, a sanction applied under Hansi Flick’s strict punctuality rules that have previously seen other players disciplined. He was introduced at half-time and supplied the assist for Dani Olmo’s goal, adding to his recent form of two goals and two assists after a Champions League brace against Newcastle. Spanish reports said the brief delay was caused by Rashford completing a mandatory electronic form. Pundits including Paul Scholes, Alan Shearer and Ben Foster criticised the lateness as unprofessional. Separately, Barcelona are reportedly trying to negotiate a lower fee of around £26m to make the loan permanent while Manchester United value him closer to £35m, creating a potential transfer standoff. The episode underscores Rashford’s on-field impact but also the need for improved punctuality if he is to secure a long-term future at Camp Nou.