Youri Tielemans is reportedly on the verge of a £35 million transfer to Manchester United, and his previous comments about Marcus Rashford could prove pivotal in the forward's future at Old Trafford. The Belgium midfielder spent part of the 2024/25 season alongside Rashford at Aston Villa, where Rashford was on loan from United.
Tielemans' High Praise for Rashford
Early in their time together at Villa, Tielemans made clear his admiration for Rashford. "Very pleased, especially the way he is performing now and with the two assists today," Tielemans said. "Marcus is someone who can threaten everyone. He is very important for us in the way he plays because he gives us something different on the left-hand side. You could tell today every time he got the ball he was dangerous and hopefully with many more minutes in his legs he will only get better."
Those remarks underscore the impact Rashford made during his loan spell, where he played in both the Premier League and Champions League under Unai Emery. Despite not joining Villa permanently, Rashford moved to Barcelona on loan for the 2025/26 campaign, where he enjoyed a fruitful season.
Rashford's Uncertain Future at United
Rashford's future at Manchester United remains unclear after a falling-out with former manager Ruben Amorim. Amorim dropped the winger, insisting his tactics were the "way you're supposed to play football" and that Rashford could not embrace his approach. Less than 12 months later, Amorim was dismissed, and Michael Carrick took over. Carrick restored success and squad harmony, leading United to a third-place Premier League finish and Champions League qualification.
Carrick, now on a permanent deal, is set to hold discussions with Rashford about his future. Rashford himself has been non-committal, saying: "I was very clear. I wanted any move done before the World Cup. If it's not, I wanted it to wait until after. I want to be fully present in the moment. We're fighting for something special. I don't have the energy to dedicate to [thinking about club uncertainty]."
United's Transfer Activity
Manchester United have already signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea in a deal worth up to £50 million. Tielemans would be their second midfield addition, with the club's pursuit of Ederson having stalled. Tielemans, 29, is available for around £35 million and could be a key figure in persuading Rashford to remain at Old Trafford.
United fans hope that new arrivals, combined with Tielemans' glowing endorsement, might convince Rashford to stay. The forward is currently away with England at the World Cup, where he is focused on the tournament. Discussions with Carrick and a potential Tielemans reunion could sway his decision.
