Michael Carrick has confirmed Marcus Rashford will return to Manchester United’s first-team group next week, just hours after the club’s 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain.
The 28-year-old was absent in Gothenburg on Saturday as Bryan Mbeumo earned United a draw against the European champions. ReadManUtd reported before kick-off that Rashford had been left out of Carrick’s PSG squad, but his manager has now made clear that the situation is about to change.
Speaking to Scandinavian broadcaster VG after the game, Carrick confirmed that Rashford will join the rest of United’s returning players in Dublin.
“I’ve played with him. I played in the game he made his debut, so we have a history,” Carrick said.
Rashford famously made his senior United debut against Midtjylland in February 2016, when Carrick was still part of the playing squad.
Marcus Rashford set for Manchester United return
Carrick’s declaration provides the clearest indication yet that Marcus Rashford is being brought back into the first-team picture.
The forward has not played for United since December 2024 after falling out of favour under former head coach Ruben Amorim. He subsequently spent loan spells with Aston Villa and Barcelona.
The Guardian reported last month that Rashford was expected to begin the new season back at Manchester United unless an appropriate permanent move emerged. Barcelona decided against activating their £26million purchase option following his season in Spain.
There also appears to be support for his return inside Carrick’s squad. The Telegraph’s James Ducker reports that some United players have contacted Rashford to say they are looking forward to having him back.
United now travel to Dublin before facing Leeds United at Croke Park on Wednesday. Carrick said the group there will also include returning internationals Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez.
Saturday’s 1-1 draw against PSG gave Carrick another opportunity to assess his squad, but Rashford’s arrival adds another major attacking option before the Premier League season begins.
A transfer before the window closes cannot yet be completely dismissed. What has changed is Rashford’s immediate position.
After 18 months without a United appearance, Carrick is preparing to welcome him back into the group.
