Marcus Rashford stripped of No.10 shirt as Manchester United give green signal to five departures

Marcus Rashford’s time at Manchester United appears to be drawing to a close as his iconic No.10 shirt has been reassigned to new signing Matheus Cunha. The decision signals yet another indicator that the England forward is not in United’s long-term plans.

Rashford is among five first-team players who have communicated their desire to leave the club this summer. As a result, the quintet including Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia have been granted permission to delay their return to Carrington for pre-season training.

Delayed pre-season return for wantaway stars

Rather than joining the squad for early fitness assessments next week, the five players will report later in July. The club has confirmed that its medical and rehab facilities will remain open for use, and players can continue to receive remote support during their time away.

Club insiders stress that if transfer deals for the players are not finalized, they will be welcomed back into the squad, although new head coach Ruben Amorim will ultimately decide their roles moving forward.

Barcelona still a possible destination for Marcus Rashford

Rashford, who spent the latter part of last season on loan at Aston Villa, remains eager to secure a move abroad. His top choice is Barcelona. However, the Catalan club’s summer strategy has largely centered on signing Spain international Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao.

Due to financial constraints, Barcelona has been unable to activate Williams’ release clause, and the winger has now signed a long-term deal with Athletic Club, extending his stay until 2035. That development reopens the door for Rashford, who could move on either a loan or permanent basis.

Other departures taking shape

Sancho is eyeing a switch to Juventus after Chelsea paid £5 million to avoid a permanent £25 million transfer. Garnacho, previously a key figure under Amorim, is pushing for an exit after public dissatisfaction with his role in the Europa League Final.

Malacia, after an injury-plagued loan at PSV Eindhoven, is not expected to return, while Antony impressed at Real Betis. Betis want to make the Brazilian’s move permanent but may opt for a season-long loan with an obligation to buy, as United seek to recover £30 million.