A week ago, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/first-lamine-yamal-inherits-lionel-messis-iconic-kit-no-10-now-loanee-marcus-rashford-gets-his-idols-number-at-barcelona/">Barcelona announced the signing of Marcus Rashford</a> on a one-season loan from Manchester United. The forward became one of the few English players to wear the Blaugrana shirt, and he’s already received an important piece of advice from the last countryman to do so.



Marcus McGuane gave a recent interview to The Sun and spoke about what <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/marcus-rashford/">Rashford</a> can expect in this new experience with Barcelona. “On the field, I’m sure he’ll hit the ground running and give a good representation of himself,” explained the 26-year-old midfielder. “He is a top player with fantastic qualities with lots to give his team – so I’m sure he’ll thrive.”



However, he then emphasized the challenges the former Manchester United star may face as he adjusts to a completely different environment. “Off the field, I’d recommend he immerses himself in the local culture and dives into his new community,” McGuane stressed.



This will be Rashford’s first experience playing for a club outside of England. He spent nearly his entire career with the Red Devils, appearing in 426 matches between 2016 and 2025. In the final six months before his <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a> move, he was on loan at Aston Villa, so he has never played outside the Premier League.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250729_WST_581542_mcguane-1200x675_64d44708.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-581544" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29190839/mcguane.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>English midfielder Marcus McGuane playing for Bristol City during a Championship match against Watford on November 26, 2024.</figcaption></figure>



“Family and friends will be crucial so he settles down and makes it feel like home as quickly as possible. Being in a different country, picking up a different language and adapting to a different culture, you’ll need a good support network,” McGuane added.


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<h2>Who is Marcus McGuane?</h2>



On March 7, 2018, Marcus McGuane played a few minutes in a penalty shootout win over Espanyol in the Supercopa de Catalunya, becoming the first English player in 29 years to wear the Barcelona shirt. He had joined shortly before from Arsenal at just 19 years old.



However, McGuane’s stay in Spain was short-lived. After limited opportunities with the first team, he spent most of his time with Barça Atletic, the club’s B-team in the Spanish second division. There, he made 26 appearances before departing in 2019.



That brief stint in Barcelona was followed by a short spell with Telstar in the Netherlands, before McGuane returned to England in 2020. Since then, he has played for Nottingham Forest, Oxford United, and currently, Bristol City in the EFL Championship.



<h2>English players to feature for Barcelona</h2>



Over the club’s history, Barcelona have had 13 English players on their roster. However, 10 of them were more than a century ago, in the early 1900s. In the modern era of soccer, only one other name joins Marcus McGuane and Marcus Rashford: Gary Lineker.



The English legend was one of his country’s most prominent stars in the 1980s, even finishing as the top scorer at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico—outscoring Argentina’s Diego Armando Maradona. That performance earned Lineker a move to La Liga that same summer, where he stayed for three seasons, making 138 appearances and scoring 52 goals with Barcelona.

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This year, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">Paris Saint-Germain</a> proved themselves to be the best team in Europe with a dominant UEFA Champions League title run, even though they failed to follow it up at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Now, one of the team’s key players could be on the way out to Manchester United.



According to L’Equipe, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/gianluigi-donnarumma/">Gianluigi Donnarumma</a>’s future at PSG is far from certain for the upcoming season. This is largely due to the fact that the French side is on the verge of signing another top-tier goalkeeper, which could soon put the Italian star’s starting role in jeopardy.



The player PSG have chosen to reinforce their goal this summer is Lucas Chevalier, the 23-year-old keeper who has made the starting spot his own at Lille over the past three seasons despite his young age. With 127 Ligue 1 appearances already, he has impressed with his strong performances, earning his first call-up from Didier Deschamps for the French national team last November.



Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that negotiations for Chevalier are well advanced. “€40m (around $46.1 million) deal being sorted directly between presidents Al Khelaifi and Letang as Lille ask for more add-ons, but very close. Chevalier accepted a five year deal last week,” wrote Romano this Tuesday on his X account.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250729_WST_581531_Gianluigi-Donnarumma-1200x675_337339b5.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Gianluigi Donnarumma" class="wp-image-579020" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/12195928/Gianluigi-Donnarumma.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Gianluigi Donnarumma was instrumental in Paris Saint-Germain’s success last season.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Donnarumma’s future may lie in England</h2>



The uncertainty surrounding what Lucas Chevalier’s arrival could mean for Gianluigi Donnarumma’s status has sparked speculation about a possible departure for the Italian goalkeeper before the start of the 2025–26 season.


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The newspaper L’Equipe claims this possibility has been on Gianluigi’s mind for a while. “Even before the end of the European season, the goalkeeper had already privately discussed the idea of leaving, despite differing public statements,” the report says. It then immediately points to two potential destinations for him. “Manchester United and Manchester City, already present at the beginning of June, are still in the race to sign Donnarumma.”



<h2>Manchester United reportedly in the market for a goalkeeper</h2>



Just two years ago, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/manchester-united/">Manchester United</a> signed Andre Onana from Inter Milan for nearly $60 million, hoping he would be their long-term answer between the posts. However, the Cameroonian has delivered inconsistent performances that have raised doubts and fueled speculation about the potential arrival of another star goalkeeper.



In addition to Donnarumma, as reported by L’Equipe, other names have been mentioned. Nick Pope was linked by TalkSport, especially considering his contract expires next year and Newcastle have reportedly agreed to sign Aaron Ramsdale. Another option was Emiliano Martinez, but Aston Villa turned down the possibility.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="688946939901c3ce28a46a8a" data-title="Should PSG let Donnarumma go?" data-options="2"></div>

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For the past two years, Inter Miami’s strategy for achieving on-field success has been centered around creating the ideal environment for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> to thrive. That’s why they’ve brought in several Argentine players and former Barcelona stars to surround the forward and help him shine. Now, the Herons are reportedly after a two-time UEFA Champions League winner who fits that profile.



According to reporter Ekrem Konur, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> are interested in Marc Bartra. The 34-year-old currently plays for Real Betis in La Liga and could represent a major upgrade to the backline for Javier Mascherano’s team, given his many years competing at the highest level of global soccer.



Bartra began his professional career with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a> in 2010 under head coach Pep Guardiola, though his breakout came three seasons later. During his six-year stint with the Catalan side, he made 103 appearances, scored six goals, and won 12 trophies—including two Champions League titles (2011 and 2015).



During those years, the defender shared the pitch with several players who now star for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Lionel Messi, of course, is one of them, along with Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250729_WST_581468_bartra-messi-1200x675_fdee8842.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-581471" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/29134725/bartra-messi.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi duels for the ball with Marc Bartra during a La Liga match between Real Betis and Barcelona on February 09, 2020.</figcaption></figure>



After leaving Barcelona, Bartra also played for Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor in Turkey, and Real Betis. His time with the Spanish club includes two separate stints, the most recent beginning in 2023. Last season, he appeared in 37 matches and played a key role in helping Betis finish sixth in La Liga and reach the UEFA Conference League final, where they fell to Chelsea.


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<h2>Inter Miami need defensive reinforcements</h2>



Adding Marc Bartra wouldn’t just bring quality to the roster—he’s a veteran with top-tier European experience spanning the last 15 years. It would also offer a much-needed solution for Mascherano, especially given the defensive struggles the Herons have faced this year.



The head coach has had to make numerous changes in the backline due to inconsistent performances, injuries, and suspensions. Maximiliano Falcon and Tomas Aviles have been Mascherano’s primary center-back options, while versatile players like Gonzalo Lujan, Ian Fray, and Noah Allen have also filled in.



However, several of those players have recently been sidelined due to physical issues, complicating the coach’s plans. In addition, Inter Miami lost Hector David Martinez, who completed his loan from River Plate and has since joined Olimpia in Paraguay.



<h2>Another possible signing for Inter Miami</h2>



In addition to Bartra, Ekrem Konur also reported that Inter Miami are interested in Facundo Pellistri, the Uruguayan winger currently playing for Panathinaikos in Greece. The 23-year-old had a brief stint with Manchester United and is a key figure in his national team, having played in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar and the Copa America 2024.

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This week, the Saudi Pro League completed yet another headline-making transfer of a global star. Joao Felix left Chelsea to join Al Nassr, where he will play alongside <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>, and he opened up about what this opportunity means to him.



“I’m very happy to be here, to join this club, to join amazing players. I’m excited to start,” said <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/joao-felix/">Felix</a> during a brief interview shared by Al Nassr on their official social media accounts, which also showed the first footage of the forward arriving in Austria to begin training with his new teammates.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al Nassr</a> have been in Europe for the past week as part of the first phase of their preseason training. During this time, they’re also playing friendly matches to build match fitness and adapt to the playing style of their new head coach.



Joao Felix also addressed Jorge Jesus in that same interview. “I spoke with him a few times,” said the forward about his fellow countryman. “Finally I’m gonna work with him, I’m excited to learn with him and I’m gonna help him in whatever I can.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">With our CEO and Sports Director 💛 João Félix signs his contract with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AlNassr?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AlNassr</a> ✍️ and sends a special message to all AlNassr fans 🤩 <a href="https://t.co/7SK4qHNpkU">pic.twitter.com/7SK4qHNpkU</a>— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlNassrFC_EN/status/1950202433025552557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Felix also acknowledged that in his conversations with his new coach, Jesus was extremely complimentary—something that clearly played a role in tipping the scales in favor of this move to Al Nassr. “I know that he likes me a lot, he always said that to me and to other players that I share the dressing room (with) in the national team,” Joao said.


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<h2>Joao Felix and Cristiano Ronaldo reunite</h2>



Joao Felix has been teammates with Cristiano Ronaldo on the Portugal national team for the past six years. The young forward made his debut in 2019, when CR7 was already the undisputed leader of the squad, and they have since played together in the FIFA World Cup 2022, as well as Euro 2021 and Euro 2024.



Although Felix joined the Portugal national team at a young age and has remained part of the squad over the years, his role has gradually diminished. His performances at the club level—particularly with Chelsea and AC Milan—have caused him to fall down the pecking order under coach Roberto Martinez. This new chapter alongside Ronaldo at Al Nassr could help him regain some of the ground he’s lost.



<h2>When could Joao Felix make his Al Nassr debut?</h2>



Al Nassr will play their second preseason friendly this Wednesday against Toulouse at the Untersberg-Arena in Grodig, Austria. With just 24 hours of training with the team, it’s unlikely Joao Felix will see action in that match. However, there will be more opportunities soon.



On Saturday, August 2, Jorge Jesus’ team will face Sheffield United, who compete in the English Championship. Eight days later, they will play another friendly against Almeria in Spain. All of these matches serve as preparation for the start of the official season, which kicks off on August 18 against Al Ittihad in the semifinals of the Saudi Super Cup.

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Alejandro Lopez Vega is a seasoned sports journalist who currently serves as a Subeditor at World Soccer Talk. With over thirteen years of experience in news writing, sports analysis, and event coverage, Alejandro specializes in soccer, star players, key leagues, and international competitions. Before joining WST, Alejandro brought his expertise to Bolavip US, where he further honed his skills in sports journalism. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with prominent media outlets in Rosario, Argentina, including Radio La Red and Radio Mitre, and has held significant roles in the Communication and Press Departments for the soccer teams Newell's Old Boys and Central Córdoba. Alejandro is bilingual in Spanish and English, enabling him to effectively engage with diverse audiences.

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