Deco proves he was right: golden signing to replace Raphinha

Barça's sporting director did his homework in the summer transfer market and gave Hansi Flick what he had requested. The star signing was the goalkeeper from Sallent, Joan García, who had been the breakout goalkeeper of La Liga last season. He was the goalkeeper with the most saves and, thanks to his outstanding performances, he ended up securing Espanyol's place in the top division.

Meanwhile, British winger Marcus Rashford was Deco's bet to strengthen the team's attacking line. Flick had been requesting a quality winger for months to rotate with footballers like Raphinha or Lamine Yamal. Last season, they played almost every match, barely getting any rest, reaching the end of the season exhausted and at risk of injury.

Raphinha performed at a very high level throughout the season, standing out for both his scoring and assisting abilities. He was a key player in Hansi Flick's team's successes, just as Lamine Yamal was on the right wing. With Rashford's arrival, Flick ensured he had a new piece to manage minutes and cover for possible injuries.

Rashford performs at a high level

Marcus Rashford has been one of the positive stories for Barça in the most recent matches. The English forward had a great Champions League match at Newcastle's stadium, where he scored two stunning goals, allowing Barça to debut with a win. His outstanding match was very helpful for boosting his confidence, and he currently has 3 assists in La Liga.

The English forward is getting more and more opportunities at Barça, to the point that he is starting in some matches. Injuries, first to Lamine Yamal and now to Raphinha, have worked in his favor, giving him more chances to prove himself. The competition is very tough, with Raphinha being the undisputed starter when he is fully fit.

A 35-million signing

The striker on loan from United is an ambidextrous, fast forward with a striker's instinct, able to play as a left winger, center forward, or second striker. His game combines explosiveness, strong one-on-one skills, and a powerful shot that allows him to score from distance. In addition, in recent seasons, he has improved his off-the-ball movement by attacking the far post.

Deco has shown his complete accuracy so far, and Rashford is trusted to end up showing his best version. He has arrived on loan from United with a purchase option set at around 35 million euros. This signing could be very profitable; at 27 years old, Rashford has found his great challenge at Barça, to become again the forward of the 23/24 season who ended up scoring more than 30 goals with United.