Marcus Rashford's loan at Barcelona has gone well so far but not perfectly, and the Catalan club agreeing a permanent transfer with Manchester United is not guaranteed
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Sociedad and FC Barcelona
Marcus Rashford's spell with Barcelona could be extended(Image: Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images)
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Marcus Rashford's future appears to be trending in one direction, even after Ruben Amorim's departure from Manchester United. The forward looks destined to extend his stay in Barcelona following his loan spell this term, but a move could yet see some road bumps.
Rashford joined the Catalan club in the summer and has since recorded eight goals and 11 assists in 29 appearances. The 28-year-old has impressed at Barca despite an array of attacking talent, including Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, and the club are keen to see him stay.
The La Liga giants hold a £26.1million clause that they can activate to make the star's move permanent at the end of the season. Rashford, who scored from the bench at the weekend, is also said to be keen on committing to stay at Camp Nou.
Barca remain happy with Rashford's contributions this term but are reported to have some concerns over his defensive contributions. The England international is not perceived to be as adept at pressing as Raphinha, but his efforts and applications are appreciated, according to The Athletic.
It could yet be a factor which hands Barcelona food for thought. The Spanish league leaders have not been financially flush in recent seasons, and that could yet provide some pause for the summer.
Barca may look at alternative options other than triggering the clause to do a deal with United. A combination of the transfer fee and Rashford's salary may be difficult for the club to manage.
The report claims that Barcelona could even look to sign Rashford on loan for a second season, despite widespread reports they will look to trigger their clause. Rashford's contract with United runs until 2028.
Marcus Rashford left winger of Barcelona and England celebrates with the trophy after winning the Spanish Super Cup final match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford has tasted success with Barcelona(Image: )
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Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has certainly appeared happy to have Rashford at his disposal. The German coach pointed to the loanee as a shining example of being committed to the club, despite an uncertain future.
"Marcus' performances have been really good until now, so we have to manage it, but it's [sporting director] Deco's job do things for next season," he said "We have to wait.
"We have months to go. For me, of course with Marcus we have a player on the top level, but also with our situation, and what I appreciate a lot from him [is his desire to be here].
"This is what I want to say to young players from La Masia: We are Barca and we are one of the best teams in the world.
"We give them the opportunity to train with us, to grow, to train with the best players in the world, the support and the confidence.
"If you want to play with Barca, then it has to be 100 per cent with your whole heart. This is what I want to say to everyone: 100 per cent. These colours, you have to live for them. All the others, I don't want."