Marcus Rashford was the star of the show as Barcelona edged past Newcastle United in the Champions League. His standout performance has left Manchester United fans and former players wondering what might have been.
Barcelona secured a 2-1 win at St. James’ Park in the early hours of Friday (Sept 19, 2025), with Rashford scoring both goals for the Spanish giants. Newcastle’s only response came through Anthony Gordon.
The brace marked Rashford’s first official goals for Barcelona since joining on loan from Manchester United. It came in his fifth appearance for the La Liga club.
His impressive showing didn’t go unnoticed, especially back in Manchester. Former United midfielder and club legend Nicky Butt didn’t hold back when asked about the decision to let Rashford go.
“I’d be sitting there thinking, ‘What have we done?’” Butt told the BBC. “He was forgotten at United, and the club is clearly struggling. Players need support, and Marcus definitely needed it. When he gets that love and backing, you see what he’s capable of like tonight.”
“He reminded everyone just how good he really is. Over the past two years, we’ve almost forgotten his talent here in England,” Butt continued. “But tonight, we saw the old Marcus again his goals, his work ethic, everything.”
Rashford had been left out of Manchester United’s plans this season under manager Rúben Amorim. After a brief loan spell at Aston Villa earlier in the year, he was once again sent out on loan this time to Barcelona.
United’s decision came amid a flurry of attacking signings, including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško. Ironically, none of them have made a major impact so far.
Now, with Rashford lighting up European nights in Barcelona, the questions surrounding United’s judgment continue to grow.
