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Jules Kounde makes “very difficult” verdict on defending Manchester United forward Marus Rashford
Barcelona centre-back Jules Kounde has admitted that it is “very difficult” to defend against Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, having come up against the forward at Camp Nou.
The Balugrana took on the Red Devils at home last week in the first leg of the Europa League playoff tie. Now, the Old Trafford side are set to welcome the Spanish giants to Manchester on Thursday (23 February).
In the reverse fixture, the former Sevilla international suffered a bit as the England international led United’s attack. The 24-year-old also barged into the England international as he was through on goal but was rather fortunate for the incident to be deemed fair by the referee.
Speaking to the media via Metro, Kounde praised Rashford’s quality and threat up front. While the French national admits that it was a challenge to face the 25-year-old, he is looking forward to it once again.
“I think he’s a very versatile player, he can do a lot of things on the pitch. Obviously he’s very fast so it makes it very difficult! He’s also great at reading space, getting into areas to do defining actions.
“So it’s always challenging to play against this type of player, but very exciting obviously. That’s why we play.”
In the first leg, the 24-year-old had a rather underwhelming game. The former Sevilla star scored an own goal and gave us the lead after Rashford’s brilliant run on the wing and cross into the opposition box.
The England international also scored United’s opener and the equaliser, beating Marc-Andre ter Stegen at his near post. Subsequently, Raphinha got levelled the scoring for Barcelona as the game ended in a 2-2 draw.
Marcus Rashford’s game by numbers vs. Barcelona:
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) February 16, 2023
32 touches
3 key passes
3 shots on target
2 ground duels won
1 foul won
1 goal
I’m running out of superlatives. 🤩 pic.twitter.com/b66ZiE9k3q
Rashford has been pivotal for the Red Devils this season. He has led our line with our other attackers struggling to find the back of the net on a consistent basis.
In the previous campaign, the 25-year-old struggled. However, this term, he has made 36 appearances in all competitions for the Old Trafford side, scoring 24 goals and providing eight assists.
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The England international has been in fine form under Erik ten Hag. Hopefully, he can continue his red-hot streak and help us qualify for the UEL round of 16 with a win over Barcelona.
