Marcus Rashford responds to Flick's ultimatum: 'If against Betis don't...'

The match between Barça and Betis comes at a decisive moment for both teams. The Christmas break is just around the corner and any slip-up could affect the standings before the turn of the year. Flick knows this and has demanded maximum focus from the very first moment.

That's why Barça have gone all out at La Cartuja, showing an intensity that hadn't been seen for some time. The culé team put in a very solid first half, showing the importance of the match. Betis tried to respond, but their initial plan was disrupted by the quick reaction from the culés.

Antony and Ferran Torres shine in the first half

Antony put Betis ahead in the 5th minute after taking advantage of a loose ball in Barça's box. The goal silenced the culé fans who had traveled to Seville and forced Flick to call for calm. The response, however, was immediate.

Ferran Torres was the absolute protagonist in the next five minutes. The Valencian forward scored a brace that completely changed the dynamic of the match; he now has 14 this season. Thanks to the "7", Barça were able to turn the score around before the first quarter of an hour and face the rest of the first half with composure.

Marcus Rashford also draws the spotlight

However, the focus of the match wasn't only on the scoreboard, but on Marcus Rashford. The Englishman started in a week full of rumors about his future. In Barcelona it's already being said that the club won't exercise the €35 million buy option.

The main reason is the lack of pressing from the English winger, an aspect Flick considers non-negotiable. The coach wants footballers who bite, just as Raphinha does in every match. That's why Rashford received a very clear ultimatum before traveling to Seville.

Flick made it clear to him that he needs to improve his pressing to stay at Camp Nou. The message is clear: either he improves his pressing, or his adventure as a Barça player will be short. Marcus Rashford knows this and has tried to respond on the field.

Marcus Rashford's response won't please Flick too much

In the first 45 minutes, Marcus Rashford showed a bit more aggressiveness in his advanced pressing. He ran, closed down passing lanes, and tried to win the ball higher up the field. However, his impact on the game was limited and he's still far from what Flick demands from a starting winger.

The Englishman had some notable actions in attack, but he didn't force any turnovers, exactly what Flick had asked of him. His pressing level was correct, but without the spark needed to make a difference. Flick, from the sideline, didn't show any signs of satisfaction.

That's why his future at Camp Nou remains in doubt. Barça need wingers who work off the ball with absolute consistency. Today, in the first half against Betis, it was once again clear that Marcus Rashford is still far from that level.