Michael Carrick delivers Marcus Rashford update as Manchester United return comes near
Marcus Rashford return to Manchester United is beginning to look very different from what many expected a year ago after he had a falling with Ruben Amorim.
The England international has returned to training at Manchester United after his loan spell at Barcelona ended. Barcelona chose to buy Gordon instead of Rashford. Michael Carrick has made it clear that Rashford is still considered a United player. The 28-year-old was not involved in the friendly against Leeds, but he could feature when United face AC Milan in their final pre-season game.
Marcus Rashford returned to training on Monday alongside Kobbie Mainoo after their World Cup involvement. Lisandro Martinez also joined the squad a day later.
For Rashford, a return to the team against AC Milan could also bring him face-to-face with Ruben Amorim. The pair’s relationship deteriorated during Amorim’s time at United after the Portuguese coach arrived from Sporting in November 2024.
Carrick makes Marcus Rashford stance clear
Barcelona had the opportunity to make Rashford’s move permanent for £26 million after his loan spell in Spain. That option wasn’t taken up, with the Catalan club instead signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle.
Rashford therefore finds himself back at Old Trafford, despite it previously appearing unlikely that he would return.
Michael Carrick, who has known Rashford for a long time, has welcomed the forward back into his squad and says his return has been straightforward.
“He’s our player, you know, and he’s come back great. He’s just like any other player,” Carrick explained. “I’ve known Marcus a long time and, you know, he gives us something a little bit different. And he’s been in great spirits since he’s been back.”
The United boss also suggested there has been no disruption caused by Rashford’s return.
“He’s been back two or three days training and it’s just pretty normal, to be honest. And we’re looking forward to the start of the season.”
Rashford also has some recent form to build on. During his time at Barcelona, he registered 25 goal contributions in 49 appearances across all competitions.
Ferdinand wants Marcus Rashford to stay
Rio Ferdinand is another former United player who would like to see Rashford remain at Old Trafford.
The former defender believes the forward’s return could give United a player who feels like a new signing, particularly if Rashford can rediscover his best level.
“Rashford is back at Manchester United at the training ground. He’s like a purring Ferrari. He looks fit, he looks ready. And you know what, there is a smile on his face. And there’s a little spring in his step. So, listen, we don’t know which way this is gonna go, how it’s gonna plan at the end of the transfer window. But you know what, I hope he stays, and he will be like a new signing at the football club, and could this be the motivation that motivated Marcus Rashford to come out and prove all the doubters and the people wrong and all the naysayers. I hope it is, let’s watch this space,” Ferdinand said in an Instagram post.
There is still time for Rashford’s situation to change before the transfer window closes. For now, though, the signs point towards him remaining with United and working under Carrick.
The possibility of seeing Marcus Rashford back in action could come as soon as Saturday against AC Milan. It would be an important first step for a player whose United future looked anything but certain 12 months ago.
Carrick has already made his position clear. Rashford is a United player, and the manager appears ready to see what he can offer.
