2026-08-13 10:00:34
Marcus Rashford could resurrect his Manchester United career after Michael Carrick offered his strongest indication the England forward has a future at Old Trafford following his return from Barcelona.
The 28-year-old was back with United for their pre-season preparations in Ireland this week and watched from the sidelines as Carrick’s team faced Leeds United at Croke Park in Dublin on Wednesday (12.08.26.)
Rashford, who spent last season on loan at Barcelona after previously having a spell at Aston Villa, is expected to be given his first United run-out since December 2024 when they face AC Milan this weekend.
Michael Carrick has now welcomed Rashford back into the first-team squad after Barcelona decided against exercising the option contained in his season-long loan agreement to sign him permanently.
Asked about the forward after United drew 1-1 with Leeds before winning on penalties in Dublin, Michael was quoted by The Sun saying: “He’s our player. He’s come back great. He’s just like any other player.
“I’ve known Marcus a long time and he gives us something a little bit different.
“He’s been in great spirits since he’s been back. He’s been back two or three days, trained, and it’s just pretty normal, to be honest.
“We’re looking forward to the start of the season.”
Marcus has not played competitively for United since December 2024, having subsequently spent the second half of the 2024-’25 season on loan at Aston Villa before moving to Barcelona for the entire 2025-26 campaign.
Barcelona’s agreement with United included an option to buy the forward, but the Spanish club opted not to make his stay permanent and Marcus has consequently returned to the club where he made his senior breakthrough.
His season at Barcelona produced eight goals and seven assists in 32 La Liga appearances, while he also featured in domestic cup and European competition for the Catalan club.
Marcus’ return to Manchester comes with Michael preparing for his first full campaign as United’s permanent head coach.
The former United midfielder initially returned as head coach in January before being handed the job permanently in May on a contract running until 2028 after guiding the club to third place and Champions League qualification.
Michael had previously spent 12 seasons as a United player, making 464 appearances and winning five Premier League titles as well as the Champions League, Europa League and Club World Cup.
Marcus, meanwhile, remains closely associated with United after progressing through the club’s academy and scoring twice on his senior debut against Midtjylland in the Europa League in 2016. His United career has since included FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League success.
The forward has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for United but has not added to either figure since his first spell away from Old Trafford began.
Noussair Mazraoui was also asked about the possibility of Marcus remaining at the club for the new season.
Noussair said: “He could be a big one (new signing) for us this season. That is, of course, if he doesn’t leave.”
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