Rashford set for transfer twist as Flick tells staff he’s quitting Barcelona

Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has credited Barcelona boss Hansi Flick for helping him rediscover his confidence ahead of a decision over a permanent deal

Marcus Rashford could again be set for uncertainty over his future with reports that manager Hansi Flick could yet leave Barcelona at the end of the season. Rashford joined the Spanish giants on loan from Manchester United in the summer.

He has enjoyed a successful first few months with the club, scoring six times and providing five assists in his 14 games. It has led to reports that Barcelona are already thinking about making the move permanent at the end of the loan deal, the option to buy included will see United receive around £26million next summer if it's triggered.

Rashford himself has already made it clear that he would be keen on staying in Spain. But the uncertainty over Flick could put a spanner in the works.

According to Spanish outlet ABC, Flick has told his staff that he has made the decision to step down from his role as head coach at the end of the season.

It is said that the manager is growing ‘tired’ of the atmosphere within the squad and a perceived cultural issue within the dressing room.

There are however contrasting reports from Sky Germany that Flick is happy at Barcelona and is keen to continue his project. He is said to very happy at the club and isn't planning on leaving.

Flick is a big fan of Rashford, and is likely to be one of the key people pushing for a permanent deal in the summer. Speaking after the forward’s latest goal in the 3-1 La Liga win over Elche, the manager made his feelings clear.

“One or two more goals would have been good for him,” he said. “I’m happy with him; I know he can play at this level and he’s shown it. He’s an important player.”

If Flick does leave in the summer, then his replacement could have a different stance on a permanent deal, and possibly want to look elsewhere for reinforcements. But the deal may not just be down to Barcelona, with a potential departure of Flick possibly impacting Rashford’s decision.

The forward has spoken about how Flick has helped him during his short stint at the club. “He's very important. I feel the confidence he's given me,” he told TNT Sport.

“I knew he was a top manager before I arrived here, but to work with him is a pleasure.

"I hope the good relationship will continue for the rest of the season.”

Given the relationship that has already been established, Rashford could potentially look elsewhere if Flick leaves Barcelona in the summer. It’s a situation that United will be keeping a close eye on over the next few months.