Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United after his post-World Cup break and could feature in the pre-season friendly against Leeds at Croke Park on Wednesday, though he is unlikely to start.
Rashford's Return and Reintegration
Rashford returned to United on Sunday after his break following the World Cup. The forward was not expected to play again for the Reds after his exit last summer.
The 28-year-old joined Barcelona on loan after falling out with previous manager Ruben Amorim, the season before. Included in the loan deal was an option to buy Rashford for £26m, at the end of the season.
Barcelona Opt Not to Activate Buy Clause
After scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists, Rashford was in a good position to join Barcelona permanently. However, the La Liga giants opted not to activate his buy clause and instead signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle.
During the World Cup, Rashford put talk of his future on hold. But after the tournament, there has been no progress on his exit.
Interest from Tottenham and Others
Tottenham have shown interest in Rashford, but it is understood the 28-year-old is not keen on that move due to their lack of Champions League football. Rashford is also uninterested in a money-spinning transfer to Fenerbahce or the Saudi Pro League.
With no exit in sight, Rashford has been reintegrated into the first-team squad and could feature against Leeds at Croke Park tonight.
Carrick's Comments on Rashford
However, it is unlikely the 28-year-old will start having only had a couple of sessions back since his World Cup break. If he is not included, that does not mean he won't get his chance later down the line.
Speaking after the draw with Paris Saint-Germain, Michael Carrick offered an olive branch to Rashford. He said: "I've played with him. I played in the game he made his debut, so we have a history. We have a full squad next week in Dublin. We fly straight there and meet Leeds on Wednesday. We have a few days in Dublin where we have the whole squad, including Marcus, Kobbie [Mainoo] and Lisandro [Martinez]."
