Hansi Flick admits Barcelona will miss Marcus Rashford after rejecting permanent transfer

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has admitted the club will miss Marcus Rashford after deciding not to make the Manchester United forward's loan move permanent.

The Catalan giants held a £26 million option to buy the England international but instead opted to invest heavily in Anthony Gordon, completing a deal worth around £70 million.

Speaking after Barcelona's pre-season draw with Birmingham City, Flick praised Rashford's impact both on and off the pitch during his loan spell.

"What I can say about Marcus is I appreciate a lot to work with him," Flick said.

"Sometimes it's not always that you do know what happens with players who are on loan. I think our situation is not easy for that.

"But I appreciate working with him a lot; he's a fantastic player and a fantastic person. I think also the team miss him, I will miss him, but it's life, this is what we have to accept."

Despite Rashford enjoying an impressive campaign in Spain, Barcelona decided against activating their purchase clause.

Instead, the club prioritised the signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, committing around £70 million to strengthen their attacking options.

The decision brings Rashford's year-long stay at the Camp Nou to an end.

The 28-year-old leaves Barcelona after contributing 14 goals and 11 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.

Following confirmation that he would return to Manchester United, Rashford posted a heartfelt farewell message to supporters.

"I'm very grateful to everyone at the club for making my time here such a positive and memorable experience," he wrote.

"I've enjoyed every moment and will take many special memories with me. I wish the club and all its supporters the very best of luck and every success in the season ahead. Visca el Barca."

Rashford is now expected to rejoin Manchester United's squad following his extended post-World Cup break.

Whether he remains part of Michael Carrick's plans for the new season remains unclear, with speculation over his long-term future likely to continue before the transfer window closes.

Rashford will report back to Manchester United in the coming days after his extended summer break. With Barcelona moving in a different direction, attention now turns to whether the England international will remain at Old Trafford or become the subject of fresh transfer interest before the window closes.