Rashford's message to Man Utd about his future after two goals for Barca against Newcastle

Marcus Rashford says he "wants to stay for as many years as possible" at Barcelona after hitting two goals against Newcastle.

He sent a direct message to the Barca’s fans, sporting director Deco, and president Joan Laporta but also to Manchester United after his stunning two-goal performance against Newcastle.

His brace not only secured Barcelona’s first victory of the Champions League group stage but also ended a 19-year drought — the last time Barça won their opening away game was back in 2006, the season they went on to lift the trophy in Paris.

To make the moment even more special, Rashford delivered his performance on home soil, under the watchful eye of England manager Thomas Tuchel.

But his heroics immediately sparked a storm of criticism towards United boss Rúben Amorim, who had discarded Rashford during his time at Manchester United.

After the final whistle, Rashford was asked about his future, as he is currently on loan at Barça with only one year left on his contract. His response was emphatic: “I want to stay here for as many years as possible. We’ll see if I can make it happen.

"My focus has to be on doing my job and helping the team in every way I can. Today was a great day, but now we need to do it again at the weekend.”

The striker also highlighted the crucial role of coach Hansi Flick, who praised him after the match: “I feel Flick’s confidence in me. I knew before coming here that he was a top coach, but working with him has been a pleasure. I hope this good relationship lasts the whole season.”

Rashford’s words carried a note of caution, given his past clashes with coaches at United, but he was full of admiration for his new teammates: “I’m really excited to play in this team. I’m motivated and determined. The quality here excites me a lot.

"It’s refreshing to play alongside these guys — they’re young, they play with confidence and with a special understanding of the game. You can see it’s not easy to play here, especially with the style they try to play.”

He concluded with a heartfelt declaration: “Honestly, playing for Barcelona is an incredible experience. I’ve always been a great admirer of this club.”

While Barcelona celebrates their new hero, in Manchester there is only regret. Critics point to Amorim’s decision to let Rashford leave as one of his biggest mistakes:

“Amorim said he couldn’t get Rashford to see football the way he does. Now Rashford is at Barcelona, scoring in the Champions League, while United — under Amorim — have the worst win percentage of any manager since World War II,” local voices lament.