Michael Carrick has broken his silence on Marcus Rashford’s return to Manchester United, confirming the forward has rejoined the squad following his loan spell at Barcelona.
Michael Carrick opens up on Marcus Rashford’s return to Manchester United
The Manchester United assistant manager spoke to ITV Sport after Wednesday’s pre-season friendly against Leeds United, addressing questions about the England international’s future at Old Trafford.
“He’s our player, you know, and he’s come back great. He’s just like any other player,” Carrick stated firmly.
Rashford spent last season on loan with Barcelona, but the Catalan giants opted against triggering the £26million purchase option in the deal.
Instead, they signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle, leaving Rashford’s future uncertain.
The 28-year-old has now returned to Carrington for pre-season training and Carrick revealed the forward has made a positive impression since his return.
“I’ve known Marcus a long time and he gives us something a little bit different. And he’s been in great spirits since he’s been back,” Carrick added.
“He’s been back two or three days training and it’s just pretty normal, to be honest. And we’re looking forward to the start of the season.”
Rashford wasn’t included in United’s squad for the Leeds friendly but could feature in their final pre-season fixture against AC Milan in Poland this weekend. That match would mark his first appearance in a United shirt since December 2024.
Carrick shares a long history with Rashford, having played alongside him before coaching the forward during Jose Mourinho’s tenure and briefly managing him as caretaker boss.
United had hoped to offload Rashford permanently for the £26million fee, but Barcelona’s decision to pursue Gordon instead has left the forward with a future that remains unclear.
The 28-year-old still has two years remaining on his £325,000-per-week contract, which he signed in the summer of 2023 following his 30-goal campaign.
While questions persist about Rashford’s long-term future at Old Trafford, Carrick’s comments suggest the door remains open for the forward to reintegrate into Erik ten Hag’s plans for the upcoming season.
