Marcus Rashford has reportedly been handed Manchester United’s No.14 shirt as his reintegration under Michael Carrick continues to gather pace.
Fabrizio Romano reports that United have made the squad-number decision as a sign of trust in the 28-year-old, who returned to Carrington on Sunday after spending the past 18 months away from the first-team picture.
Rashford has also travelled with the squad and is now increasingly likely to remain at Old Trafford unless a significant offer arrives from a leading European club.
ReadManUtd reported earlier on Sunday that Rashford had been spotted back at Carrington, providing the clearest sign yet that his return to Michael Carrick’s group was underway.
Marcus Rashford Manchester United return takes another step
Rashford previously wore the No.10 shirt at United, but that number is now held by Matheus Cunha.
The No.14 shirt therefore gives the England international a fresh identity as he attempts to rebuild his United career.
Romano reports that the decision is intended to show Rashford that he remains trusted and part of Carrick’s plans. Unless a suitable proposal arrives from one of Europe’s leading clubs, he can stay at Old Trafford. (reddit.com)
That represents a significant shift from the start of the summer.
Rashford returned from his loan spell at Barcelona with his future unclear after the Spanish club decided against completing a permanent transfer.
ReadManUtd had already reported that Carrick intended to give Rashford another opportunity, with the United head coach pointing to the history between the pair and confirming the forward would be reintegrated.
Rashford made his senior United debut in 2016 while Carrick was still a player, and the pair now have the opportunity to work together in a very different capacity.
The forward has not represented United since December 2024, having subsequently spent time on loan at Aston Villa and Barcelona.
His return to Carrington was the first visible sign of a comeback.
The No.14 shirt now provides another.
Rashford still needs to earn his place in a United attack containing Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, but the club’s latest decision suggests he is being given a genuine chance to do so.
