A Comeback with a Taste of Revenge

England’s squad announcement once again featured a special protagonist: Marcus Rashford. The FC Barcelona forward is enjoying a sensational start to the season, with two goals and five assists in nine matches, and that form convinced Thomas Tuchel to bring him back into the team.

His last appearance with the Three Lions before joining Barça was in March 2024, nearly a year and a half ago, and he was also left out of the Euro 2024 squad under Gareth Southgate. What once looked like the decline of his international career has now turned into a second chance.

Tuchel Backs His Revival

Tuchel, who witnessed his Champions League brace against Newcastle live, decided it was time to restore his confidence. “He’s making the difference at Barcelona, he’s the type of player who can change games,” said the German coach when announcing the squad for the clashes against Wales and Latvia.

Beyond his offensive output, Rashford brings energy, movement and leadership—qualities that have made him a key figure for Barça at the start of the season. His maturity on the pitch contrasts with the inconsistency that marked his last months with England.

The Goal That Broke the Drought

The good news wasn’t just his call-up: in the last international window Rashford scored again for England, converting a penalty against Serbia—something he hadn’t done since October 2023, when he found the net against Italy in the Euro qualifiers. That goal ended an almost two-year drought with the national team shirt and confirmed that Rashford is back.

While players like Jude Bellingham were left out due to a lack of match fitness, the Barça forward earned his spot with decisive performances. England celebrates Rashford’s resurgence, as he once again becomes a real threat heading into the 2026 World Cup.