Flick will 'push' Rashford to achieve more at Barca

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick stated on Saturday that he plans to motivate Marcus Rashford, currently on loan from Manchester United, towards greater accomplishments.

The England forward claimed his opening brace for the side in their 2-1 Champions League success against Newcastle on Thursday.

Aged 27, Rashford slipped from prominence at Old Trafford during the previous campaign under manager Ruben Amorim, with the coach openly challenging his work ethic and motivation.

"As I noted before and after the game, I have complete faith in his talent, though consistent effort is vital and daily progress essential," Flick explained at a press briefing.

"Players must grasp the demands and team expectations, and I intend to drive him fully while providing full backing."

League leaders Barcelona take on Getafe in La Liga on Sunday, deprived of sidelined wide player Lamine Yamal, which positions Rashford for another starting role.

"Regarding Lamine, we assess his status each day," Flick noted, while hinting the teenage prodigy stands little chance of the Ballon d'Or this term.

Still, Flick affirmed Barcelona's presence at the Paris event on Monday, contrasting Real Madrid's absence from last year's proceedings upon discovering Vinicius Junior would miss out on the global player honour.

Yamal features among the nominees for the prize, yet the leading candidate remains ex-Barcelona attacker and Paris Saint-Germain standout Ousmane Dembele.

"Someday, I expect Lamine to claim this award," Flick opined.

"For now, participation shows due courtesy, given our nomination, and we await the result.

"The recipient will have earned it justly, so I aim to appreciate the occasion and honour the champion. Respect in such matters holds great importance for me."