Manchester United have handed a new role to Marcus Rashford while the forward is on loan at Barcelona and it could well point to what's in store for him next summer.
Marcus Rashford in action for Barcelona.
Marcus Rashford left Man Utd to join FC Barcelona on loan this summer.
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Manchester United have honoured out-on-loan star Marcus Rashford by including him in the legends section of their official website - as he continues to shine on loan at FC Barcelona. Rashford joined United's academy at just seven-years-old.
The forward made his senior debut in 2016 during a Europa League match against Midtjylland, scoring twice and becoming the club's youngest-ever goal-scorer in European competition at that time. Over the following decade, Rashford became a beloved figure at Old Trafford and one of the Premier League's top forwards.
His 2022/23 season was particularly impressive, with a tally of 30 goals and nine assists across all competitions. However, since Ruben Amorim took over as United's head coach last November, Rashford's status with the club deteriorated, which led to an exit during the summer transfer window.
Despite Amorim not seeing Rashford as part of his long-term plans, the club have now decided to recognise his contributions. United have added Rashford to the legends section of their website - placing him alongside some huge names and the most revered players in the club's history.
Rashford now shares the status with such icons as Sir Bobby Charlton, Roy Keane, Bryan Robson, Wayne Rooney, Denis Irwin and many other Old Trafford luminaries.
He's one of only four players on the list who are still playing - along with Bruno Fernandes, Cristiano Ronaldo and David De Gea. Of those, only Fernandes is, of course, currently playing for the club.
While Rashford remains on United's books, his longer-term future hinges on Barcelona's decision over whether to make his loan move permanent.
The Catalan giants have an option to buy the England international for approximately £26million but, despite his impressive displays, there are concerns within the club about whether a permanent transfer makes financial sense.
Barcelona are currently paying his full salary after Rashford accepted a 25 per cent wage reduction - although he still pockets around £240,000 per-week - placing him among the club's highest earners.
Manager Hansi Flick has been full of praise for the United loanee. Earlier this season, he revealed: "I told Deco this summer; 'Please get me a player like Marcus Rashford'... Please!
"I'm very happy to have him here. Rashford was an opportunity in the transfer market and we had to take it.
"I'm glad we did. I spoke to him and said; 'I need you in my team'.
"This is a good step for Rashford. And it will give him a lot of confidence."
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