Barcelona coach Hansi Flick benched Marcus Rashford in their LaLiga clash with Getafe after the forward arrived late to training — www.isagoal.com reports.
The England forward, currently on loan from Manchester United, missed out on a starting spot despite scoring twice in the Champions League against Newcastle only days earlier.
According to The Times, Rashford’s absence from the lineup wasn’t tactical but came down to his late arrival, even though it was just two minutes past schedule.
Flick has quickly built a reputation for demanding punctuality, having also punished Raphinha last week for showing up late to a fitness session.
Rashford was expected to start with teenager Lamine Yamal still recovering from injury, but instead Ferran Torres was handed the role and scored twice in the opening half.
The Englishman came off the bench after the break and made an instant impact, assisting Dani Olmo for Barcelona’s third goal of the night.
Flick’s decision sent a clear message to his squad that discipline outweighs recent performances, regardless of the player’s status or contribution.