Marcus Rashford has reportedly explored the possibility of rejoining Manchester United's first-team squad as his loan stint at Barcelona draws to a close. The forward faces an uncertain future ahead of the summer transfer window, having spent the past 18 months away from Old Trafford on loan.
Rashford's Barcelona spell
The England international netted 14 goals and provided 14 assists during his time at Barcelona last season. The La Liga giants hold an option to sign Rashford permanently for £26 million, but have opted against activating that clause. This came after Barcelona chose to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United for £69 million, with both players operating in a similar position.
Uncertain future
Consequently, there is considerable doubt surrounding where Rashford will be playing next season, with some reports indicating that Barcelona could still be willing to take the 28-year-old on another loan basis.
Now, a new report from The Sun claims that Rashford has set a plan in motion should he return to United this summer. According to the report, Rashford has reached out to members of United's first-team squad regarding a potential comeback to Old Trafford, and is said to have received positive feedback.
Carrick's involvement
Reports have also emerged that United manager Michael Carrick has been in touch with Rashford amidst continuing speculation surrounding the forward's future. Rashford hasn't featured for United's first team since December 2024, after falling out of favour under the club's former head coach, Ruben Amorim, who left in January this year.
What lies ahead for Rashford under Carrick's leadership remains uncertain, as does whether the forward will get an opportunity to rejoin the United squad. Carrick was confirmed as United's permanent manager last month, and must now decide whether to include Rashford in his plans for the upcoming season.
In April, Carrick was asked about the possibility of Rashford returning to United's first-team set-up, and did not dismiss the idea.
"I just think there's decisions to be made in time on certain things and obviously Marcus is in that situation," Carrick said. "But at this point in time, nothing's been decided. And it will be, because it has to be at a certain point. But at this stage, there's nothing to say."
Rashford is currently with the England squad in the United States as they prepare for their opening World Cup fixture against Croatia on Wednesday.
