Rashford's Future at Manchester United Uncertain Amid Barcelona Links
Marcus Rashford's future at Manchester United is increasingly uncertain as Barcelona reportedly intensifies its interest in the English forward. Despite returning to Carrington for individual training sessions, the club has made it clear that Rashford is not in manager Ruben Amorim's plans, further fueling speculation about his departure. The assignment of his No. 10 shirt to new signing Matheus Cunha serves as another indication of his imminent exit.
Carrington Return: Individual Training Amid Transfer Speculation
Rashford was spotted at Manchester United's Carrington training ground on Monday, July 7th, and again on Thursday, July 10th. These appearances occurred despite earlier reports suggesting that Rashford, along with Antony, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Tyrell Malacia, had been granted extended time off to facilitate moves to new clubs.
Sources within Manchester United clarified that Rashford's presence at Carrington was not related to discussions about his future with manager Ruben Amorim. Instead, he was undertaking individual training sessions to maintain his fitness level as he explores potential transfer opportunities. The use of separate entrances by Rashford and Amorim further emphasized the lack of direct communication regarding his future at the club.
Number 10 Shirt Assigned to Matheus Cunha
In a move that underscores Rashford's diminished role at Manchester United, the iconic No. 10 shirt has been reassigned to new signing Matheus Cunha. This decision reinforces the understanding that Rashford is not part of Ruben Amorim's plans for the upcoming season and signals a clear intent to move him on.
Barcelona Emerges as Frontrunner for Rashford's Signature
Barcelona has reportedly identified Marcus Rashford as their primary target to bolster their left-wing position. Sky in Germany reports that the Catalan club is "prepared to go all-in" for the player, particularly after missing out on Luis Diaz and Nico Williams, with Williams signing a new deal with Athletic Bilbao. Rashford is reportedly receptive to a move to Barcelona and is keen to play alongside young star Lamine Yamal.
Aston Villa Loan Spell: A Stepping Stone to a Permanent Exit
Rashford spent the latter half of the 2024-2025 season on loan at Aston Villa. While he demonstrated flashes of brilliance, the Birmingham-based club opted not to exercise their £40 million option to make the move permanent. This decision left Rashford seeking a new club this summer.
Timeline of Events Leading to Rashford's Potential Departure
November 2024: Ruben Amorim's arrival as Manchester United manager marked a turning point in Rashford's career at the club. The relationship between the two quickly became strained.
Mid-December 2024: Rashford was notably absent from the squad for the Manchester derby, reportedly due to disciplinary issues. His last appearance for United was on December 12th against Viktoria Plzen.
January 2025: Rashford secured a loan move to Aston Villa, seeking a fresh start and regular playing time.
July 4, 2025: Reports surfaced indicating Rashford's willingness to participate in pre-season training, despite the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
July 7, 2025: Rashford reported to Carrington for individual training, even though he had been granted extended time off.
July 10, 2025: Rashford was once again seen at Carrington for individual training, arriving after Amorim had departed.
Key Players and Their Stakes
Marcus Rashford: The player at the center of this transfer saga, seeking a new club and a fresh opportunity after a difficult period at Manchester United. He is prioritizing maintaining his fitness through individual training to attract potential suitors.
Manchester United: The club is eager to offload Rashford, alongside other players, to facilitate a squad overhaul under Ruben Amorim's leadership and comply with PSR (Profitability and Sustainability Rules). They are reportedly seeking a £40 million transfer fee for him.
Ruben Amorim: The Manchester United manager whose strained relationship with Rashford led to the player's loan move and current status as being outside the manager’s plans.
Barcelona: The primary club interested in acquiring Rashford, reportedly prepared to make a substantial offer. However, their financial constraints might necessitate a loan arrangement or a complex deal structure for a permanent transfer.
Aston Villa: Rashford's recent loan club, who opted not to pursue a permanent transfer.
Other Potential Suitors: Bayern Munich, Tottenham Hotspur, Fenerbahce, AC Milan, Como, and Real Betis have all been linked with Rashford in the past, though their interest appears to have cooled.
Fans and Media: Closely monitoring Rashford's situation, given his status as an academy graduate, his previous achievements, and his significant contributions to community initiatives.
Financial Figures and Reliable Reports
£40 million: The reported fee Aston Villa had the option to pay for Rashford and the amount Manchester United is reportedly seeking for a permanent transfer. (Sports Illustrated, Sky Sports)
£325,000 per week: Rashford's current reported weekly wage at Manchester United, under a contract signed in July 2023, until 2028. (Wikipedia)
Manchester United sources have denied that Rashford's Carrington visits were for discussions about his future, stating he was simply training individually. (Manchester Evening News)
Sky in Germany reports Barcelona's strong interest and their readiness to "go all-in" for Rashford.
Controversies and Potential Consequences
Rashford's tenure at Manchester United has been marred by disciplinary issues under both Erik ten Hag (prior to Amorim's arrival) and now with Amorim. This has led to his exclusion from squads and his eventual loan move, contributing to a perception of declining professionalism.
Public reaction to Rashford's situation is mixed. Some fans express disappointment with his recent performances and perceived lack of effort, while others sympathize with his desire for a fresh start, given the breakdown in his relationship with the manager.
The protracted nature of his potential exit, combined with his high wages and United's asking price, could make a transfer challenging. The lack of clarity surrounding his future creates uncertainty for both the player and the club.
A move to Barcelona, a club he reportedly admires, could revitalize his career, especially if he seeks Champions League football and consistent playing time to secure his place in the England squad for the next World Cup.
