Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United's squad for the first time in 18 months, receiving a warm reception from supporters at Carton House on Sunday. This marks the beginning of a potential new chapter for the forward at his boyhood club, though its duration remains uncertain.
Return after 18 months
Rashford's return was widely unexpected, as the club had given his No. 10 shirt to Matheus Cunha last summer, signaling that his time at Old Trafford was considered over. However, circumstances have aligned to bring player and club back together.
The 28-year-old has not played for United since December 2024. Several current squad members, including Patrick Dorgu, Ayden Heaven, Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, Karl Darlow, Andrey Santos, and Youri Tielemans, have never played alongside him, and most have not trained with him.
Reintegration and testing
United have opened the door for reintegration, and Rashford is reportedly willing to embrace it. He appeared happy upon arrival at Carton House, but this week is crucial. Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo will undergo physical testing on Monday, with a likely return to group training on Tuesday.
Rashford is said to be settled in his personal life and ready to rejoin United. He is reported to be taking the No. 14 shirt, which he wore at Barcelona last season, though this has not yet been officially confirmed to the squad in Ireland.
Carrick's influence
Michael Carrick's presence as coach is helping the reunion. Carrick, a calm and pragmatic figure with a long and positive history with Rashford, has spoken with him during the summer. Rashford did not train with the first team last summer, having been relegated to the bomb squad, making this his first proper United session in 18 months.
The week is expected to build towards a first appearance in 19 months against AC Milan in Wroclaw on Saturday. Notably, former United manager Ruben Amorim will be in the opposite dugout, adding an intriguing subplot.
Future prospects
By then, United and Rashford will have a clearer idea of whether this reunion is viable. If Rashford embraces his role and shows sharpness in training, the benefits of keeping him in the squad will outweigh the drawbacks.
A departure in the final weeks of the transfer window is not impossible, but it would require interest from an elite European club and United's confidence in finding a replacement. For now, all signs point to Rashford remaining in red for the season and reviving a career that seemed over. What happens in Ireland this week could shape that outcome.
