Barcelona took another decisive step towards reclaiming the La Liga crown, following a controlled 2-0 win over Getafe.

The result, combined with Real Madrid CF slipping to a 1-1 draw against Real Betis, has tilted the title race firmly in Barcelona’s favour.

Yet, beyond the scoreline, this was a match that revealed deeper tactical and squad decisions from manager Hansi Flick.

From selection calls to player hierarchies, three key storylines have emerged that could shape Barcelona’s summer and beyond.

One of the most intriguing subplots from the match revolved around Marcus Rashford, whose cameo off the bench sparked a sudden momentum in the match.

Rashford’s continuity is unlikely. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The Englishman was introduced at a time when the game had already tilted in Barcelona’s favour, and his impact was noticeable almost immediately.

With Getafe sitting deep and defending their box, Rashford’s direct running and ability to exploit tight spaces offered a clear contrast to the struggles faced earlier on the flank.

However, Rashford’s effectiveness came under very specific match conditions, something Flick was quick to highlight post-match.

While other players had struggled against a compact defensive block, Rashford entered the game when spaces began to open slightly and pressure had shifted.

Despite this promising display, the bigger picture surrounding his future paints a different story.

The winger has found himself increasingly sidelined in recent weeks, and Barcelona’s initial consideration of triggering his €30 million buy clause now appears to have cooled significantly.

A combination of inconsistency and failure to fully step into a leading role, especially after the departure of Raphinha, has left the club unconvinced.

Efforts to negotiate an extended loan deal with Manchester United have also gone nowhere, further suggesting that Rashford’s time at Camp Nou is nearing its end.

Cancelo is ahead of Alejandro Balde. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Another major takeaway from the victory was Flick’s clear position in the left-back department, where Joao Cancelo continues to be preferred over Alejandro Balde.

There had been a growing expectation that Balde might reclaim his starting spot, particularly after recovering from injury.

Cancelo himself had shown signs of discomfort in midweek, which made the decision even more surprising on the surface.

But Flick’s selection left little room for doubt. Cancelo started again, underlining his current importance in the system.

Balde’s situation, meanwhile, shows a massive dip in form that has affected several Barcelona players this season.