England forward Marcus Rashford has decided against a return to Manchester United and has communicated his intention to remain at Barcelona, bringing clarity to speculations that followed Michael Carrick’s appointment as the club’s interim manager.
The England forward joined the Spanish side on a season-long loan in July 2025, with the agreement including an option for Barcelona to make the move permanent for a fee in the region of €35m. The deal was reached after Rashford fell out of favour at Old Trafford.
Reports after Carrick took charge suggested United were considering whether to bring the 28-year-old back into the fold, with the former midfielder understood to be open to reintegrating him should his interim role become long-term. That possibility has now been ruled out by the player himself.
According to Jeremy Cross, Rashford has no intention of returning to Manchester United regardless of who is in the dugout. The forward has told Barcelona he wants to stay.
The Manchester-born attacker has enjoyed a productive spell since moving to Spain. Used across the front line by Hansi Flick, he has delivered 10 goals and 12 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions this season.
Barcelona’s coaching staff have spoken about his contribution, with Flick praising his output while also demanding continued improvement in training and match situations. The German coach’s trust has translated into minutes, with Rashford starting regularly in domestic and European fixtures in the first half of the season.
At Manchester United, Rashford remains under contract until 2028, but his stance reduces the likelihood of a reunion with his boyhood club this summer.
