Manchester United reopens door for Rashford as Carrick takes helm

At Old Trafford, 28‑year‑old Marcus Rashford is reportedly in talks with Manchester United to re‑join the squad under new manager Michael Carrick, sources The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano say, after his season on loan at FC Barcelona ended without a purchase option being exercised.

Rashford spent the previous season on loan at FC Barcelona, who chose not to activate the purchase option. Barcelona, the La Liga champions, had him mainly as a substitute. His loan spell concluded with 14 goals and 14 assists in 49 appearances.

The striker first broke through at Manchester United under Louis van Gaal. Between 2016 and 2025 he amassed 426 matches, 138 goals and 79 assists for the club.

Tensions grew as Rashford was previously loaned to Aston Villa before heading to Barcelona. The English international’s value at the Catalan club was reflected in his 14 goals and 14 assists across 49 games.

Rashford remains under contract with Manchester United until mid‑2028. Although he was excluded from Ruben Amorim’s plans, new manager Michael Carrick appears to view him differently.

Rashford shared the pitch 48 times with Carrick, who then played as a midfielder, between 2016 and 2018. Their on‑field partnership formed part of United’s attacking options during that period.

United’s openness to Rashford’s return suggests Carrick may reshape the squad’s attacking depth for upcoming seasons.