Overview

• Marcus Rashford set up Jules Koundé from a corner in Barcelona’s 2-1 comeback win over Real Sociedad, a result that took the champions top of La Liga.
• Hansi Flick praised Barcelona’s rehearsed set-piece routines, highlighting Rashford’s delivery as part of an emphasis on dead-ball efficiency.
• The England forward is on a scoring and assisting run that includes a two-goal Champions League display against Newcastle United.
• Barcelona hold an option to buy at season’s end reported in the £26–30m range, with fresh reports suggesting they may seek a lower fee around £25–26m.
• Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider that United could be ‘boxed in’ if Barcelona are the sole bidder, even as the loan eases United’s wage bill for the season.