Omar Berrada has outlined Manchester United's desire to keep Marcus Rashford at the club following the forward's return to Old Trafford. Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona and looked destined to complete a permanent move to the Camp Nou.
Barcelona decision and Rashford's return
Barcelona had the option of signing Rashford on a permanent basis for £26million, but opted against keeping the England international in their squad, despite an impressive return of 14 goals and 14 assists to his name. Rashford has since returned to United and has featured in both of their Premier League matches against Hull City and Ipswich Town, including a start for the home opener against the Tractor Boys on Sunday, where the Reds claimed a 5-2 victory.
Berrada's message to supporters
Berrada had a message for United supporters in the programme notes for the clash against Ipswich, with one passage hinting that the club are looking to keep Rashford at Old Trafford beyond this summer.
“We will have our new signings Andrey [Santos], Youri [Tielemans], Karl [Darlow], Tynan [Thompson] and Carlos [Baleba] here this afternoon,” Berrada wrote. “We know you will give them all a very warm welcome and get behind them as they begin their Manchester United journey.
“We’re also very pleased to welcome Marcus [Rashford] back to the team. We believe that they will all help to improve the squad as we compete on multiple fronts.”
Carrick's praise after Ipswich win
United boss Michael Carrick was full of praise for Rashford after the 28-year-old’s performance against Ipswich on Sunday, and is delighted to have him back at the club.
“He's adding to the group for us, for sure,” said Carrick. “I've known him for a while, and then he wasn't here when I've come back, and now he is.
“I think he's making the most of that for us and for him as well, to have the opportunity to be here. He's one of our own. He's living his dream, playing here now and trying to be successful and win.
“Whatever's gone on, I think part of this club, there's players that have come back sometimes, or players that maybe were going to leave, didn't leave. It's always about what you do next, and what your intentions are. He's been fantastic since he came back, I have to say, and it was great to see him on the pitch today for us.”
