Man United confirm final decision on Marcus Rashford as Michael Carrick shares a statement
Manchester United have finally made up their minds about Marcus Rashford’s future after their preseason win over Leeds United.
Michael Carrick, stepping into his first full season as Manchester United’s head coach, has had a busy summer transfer window to manage. So far, the club has signed three new players for the main squad: Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans and Chelsea’s Andrey Santos for a total of £85 million, plus former Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer.
There were also rumors linking big names like Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni and Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall to Old Trafford, but those moves didn’t happen.
The biggest topic this summer has been about Rashford’s future. The 28-year-old spent last season on loan at Barcelona and was expected to join them permanently, but things changed when Anthony Gordon moved to Camp Nou. Rashford wasn’t in the squad when United played Leeds in Dublin but was seen training with the team.
After the match, Carrick made it clear that despite the rumors, Rashford is staying with United for this season. “He’s our player, and he’s come back great,” Carrick said. “He’s been back training a few days now and looks in good spirits. We’re all looking forward to the season starting.”
This is great news for fans hoping to see Rashford fully back in the team, especially as expectations rise. Rashford is believed to be United’s highest-paid player, earning about £325,000 a week, boosted by a pay increase after qualifying for the Champions League. With that comes pressure for him to perform at his best.
United’s next preseason game is against AC Milan in Poland on Saturday, and Rashford might make his first United appearance since December 2024.
Being the highest earner adds extra pressure, and Rashford will need a strong start to avoid criticism. But former United striker Owen believes Carrick is the right person to help Rashford and the club move forward.
Owen told SPORTbible, “If anyone can smooth things over, it’s Michael Carrick. He’s got a great personality, and everyone respects him. Rashford and Carrick know each other well, and I’m sure they get along. If it was anyone else, Rashford’s time might be up, but he’s an important player, and United can’t just let him go without the right offer.”
Owen added, “Not long ago, you thought Rashford might never play for United again. Now, it’s hard to say what will happen. I’m 50-50 on it.”
Rashford’s last game for Manchester United was on December 12, 2024, in the Europa League against Viktoria Plzen.