Michael Carrick wants Marcus Rashford to return to Old Trafford if he keeps his head coach role going into next season.
Marcus Rashford was named in Rúben Amorim’s “Bomb Squad” in the summer of 2025, along with Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia and Jadon Sancho. As such, he left for Barcelona on a season-long loan with an option to buy.
However, Amorim has since been dismissed from his Manchester United role, following comments he wanted to be the ‘manager’ of the club, rather than the ‘head coach’. United quickly sacked him from his role as ‘head coach’ afterwards.
With Michael Carrick now in charge until the end of the season, this leaves the door open for a Rashford return. Carrick was only appointed as a short-term head coach, but United’s current performances could push him into contention for the full-time role in the summer.
Last week, reports emerged that Carrick “would like” Rashford to return to Old Trafford if he is made full-time head coach for next season and beyond. The two played together until 2018, but a reunion doesn’t seem likely.
Barcelona make firm Rashford decision
Reports had indicated that Barcelona liked the idea of keeping Rashford at the club beyond his current loan deal, but were unwilling to pay the £26 million buy option inserted into his contract.
However, Sport have now reported that a new “unanimous” decision has been made. Sport state that Barcelona will pay the £26 million and Rashford will sign a three-year deal with Hansi Flick’s side in June.
The only condition is that there is a “serious physical setback”, in which case Barcelona will not activate their £26 million buy option, and they will likely wait for an update on his condition before reigniting their interest.
In his 34 appearances for Barcelona, Rashford has registered 10 goals and 10 assists – the first time he has been in double digits for both goals and assists since 2020/21 under Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who was assisted by Michael Carrick.
The best for all parties
It’s been some time since Rashford was hailed the star man at Old Trafford. His last stint at the club led to much criticism from fans and pundits alike, ruining his confidence and stripping him of his exciting wing play.
His loan to Aston Villa helped return some of that confidence, but Rashford has looked like a completely new player in Barcelona.
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In truth, it will be best for all parties if Rashford leaves United permanently in the summer transfer window.
He can start afresh and get back to his former heights, and United can move on and focus on their new project under a new manager.
It’s just a shame how it’s ended.
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