Speculation surrounding the future of Marcus Rashford has intensified following claims that his departure from Manchester United was not solely due to former manager Ruben Amorim, but rather internal dressing room dynamics involving a specific teammate.
Reports suggest Rashford has made it clear that if he is to consider a return to Old Trafford, certain changes would need to be made within the squad.
According to these claims, he believes that for a reunion to happen under interim boss Michael Carrick, the club may have to make a decisive choice between him and another unnamed player.
Carrick’s influence could prove pivotal in determining Rashford’s next steps. The United legend, currently overseeing the team on a temporary basis, is said to be central to any potential reconciliation.
Former Red Devils and England masseuse Rod Thornley has weighed in on the situation, offering insight into Rashford’s mindset over the past few seasons.
Rashford is presently on loan at Barcelona, who retain the option to secure his services permanently during the summer transfer window.
Discussions have reportedly begun between Barcelona and United, but no final agreement has been reached.
Despite spending time away from Manchester, Rashford remains under contract at United for more than two additional years.
Last season, the forward also had a loan spell at Aston Villa, and he has not played for United since December 2024.
Thornley recently shared his perspective on the striker’s behavior and demeanor in the period leading up to his exit.
Speaking on The Busby Way podcast, Thornley suggested that Rashford’s personality around the club had noticeably changed.
He described a once cheerful and vibrant academy graduate becoming withdrawn and visibly unhappy within the training environment.
According to Thornley, while Rashford appeared relaxed and content outside the club, his mood inside the dressing room seemed subdued.
That shift, he claimed, eventually impacted his performances on the pitch. Observers noted a drop in visible energy and intensity — qualities that had once defined his style of play.
Thornley believes that Carrick’s current emphasis on raising energy levels within the squad is exactly what Rashford had been lacking during his final months at United.
Since breaking into the first team in 2016 at just 18 years old, Rashford has made 426 appearances for his boyhood club, registering 138 goals and 79 assists.
He has also collected six major trophies, including the UEFA Europa League and two FA Cups. However, his standing within the squad declined under Amorim, culminating in his departure on loan.
Thornley remains optimistic that a pathway back to United could exist. He insists Rashford still possesses the talent required to thrive at the highest level, something he has demonstrated this season in Spain with 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances for Barcelona.
Nevertheless, Thornley emphasized that consistency and renewed hunger are essential if Rashford is to rediscover his best form.
Ultimately, Carrick’s vision and decision-making could shape whether Rashford’s United chapter is truly closed — or merely paused pending the right circumstances.
