BREAKING NEWS: Another major twist has emerged at Manchester United as a player who arrived only last summer is now set to leave Old Trafford, with his departure expected as early as tomorrow following the appointment of Michael Carrick as caretaker manager.
Fresh reports have now shed light on Manchester United’s final stance regarding Marcus Rashford’s future, should the England international return to the club at the end of the season.
Despite significant changes behind the scenes at Old Trafford, the club’s hierarchy have already reached a clear conclusion.
A Revival in Spain
Rashford has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence since completing a season-long loan move to Barcelona last summer.
After falling out of favor under former United head coach Ruben Amorim—who himself was dismissed just last week—the forward seized the opportunity to rebuild his career in La Liga.
Now 28, Rashford has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, recording seven goals and eleven assists across competitions.
His impact has not gone unnoticed, as he has quickly become a fan favorite at Camp Nou while also earning the full trust of head coach Hansi Flick.
The German tactician views Rashford as a vital squad option due to his flexibility, allowing him to operate anywhere across the front line.
Rather than blocking the progress of established stars like Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, or teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Rashford has complemented them, offering pace, experience, and depth.
His strong performances have also earned him a recall to the England national team under Thomas Tuchel, further underlining his return to form.
Barcelona’s Financial Dilemma
Despite Barcelona’s desire to keep Rashford beyond this season, their financial struggles have complicated matters.
Reports from Spain around Christmas suggested the club might be unable to activate the £26 million purchase option included in the loan agreement.
This raised the possibility of Rashford returning to Manchester United—an outcome that neither the player nor the Catalan club were keen on at the time.
However, football circumstances can change rapidly. Amorim’s sudden dismissal dramatically altered the situation, and Barcelona sporting director Deco is believed to have met Rashford personally to reassure him of the club’s intention to retain his services.
Even so, Barcelona’s ongoing economic limitations remain a significant obstacle to a permanent transfer.
The Carrick Factor and United’s Decision
Following Amorim’s exit, Michael Carrick has now taken over as caretaker manager until the end of the campaign.
United are expected to appoint a permanent head coach in the summer, with names like Thomas Tuchel and Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner reportedly under consideration.
Any incoming manager is likely to revert to a more traditional Manchester United setup, favoring a back four and attack-minded wingers.
Interestingly, there is currently a noticeable lack of natural left-sided attackers in the squad after several departures under Amorim, a gap Rashford could theoretically fill.
Yet despite this tactical opening, talkSPORT reports that INEOS have firmly ruled out Rashford’s return.
According to the outlet, the decision to move on from the academy graduate was not solely driven by Amorim, but also strongly backed by senior figures such as director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada.
No Way Back
Rashford remains one of the club’s highest earners, with a reported salary of £325,000 per week and a contract that runs until 2028.
That financial commitment, combined with the club’s long-term restructuring plans, has further convinced United’s leadership that a permanent separation is the best path forward.
As things stand, even with Amorim gone and Carrick in temporary charge, Manchester United appear determined to close the chapter on one of their most high-profile academy graduates signaling yet another bold and controversial decision in an already turbulent season at Old Trafford.
