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Marcus Rashford’s future remains one of the most closely watched storylines heading into the latter stages of the 2025–26 season, with Barcelona and Manchester United quietly positioned on opposite sides of a complex transfer equation.
While discussions in England have centered on the possibility of a return to Old Trafford, it is Barcelona who currently hold the decisive advantage in determining the England international’s next move.
Barcelona hold the key to Marcus Rashford’s future
Rashford joined Barcelona on loan ahead of the ongoing campaign, a move sanctioned during a turbulent period at Manchester United.
Crucially, the La Liga giants negotiated a purchase option that can be activated in the summer of 2026. While the clause does not obligate Barcelona to complete a permanent transfer, it grants them priority control over Rashford’s future—without United being able to intervene if the option is exercised.
This contractual detail places Barcelona in a commanding position. Even if interest from the Premier League intensifies, the Catalan club retain the right to decide whether Marcus Rashford remains in Spain beyond the current season.
Manchester United’s internal interest grows
Back in Manchester, interim head coach Michael Carrick is reportedly keen to bring Rashford back into the fold should he remain in charge next season.
Carrick, who is overseeing first-team duties through the end of the campaign, is understood to view Rashford as a key figure in any long-term rebuild.
Their shared history adds weight to the speculation. Carrick and Rashford previously played together under Louis van Gaal, the manager who handed Rashford his senior debut in 2016.
With Ruben Amorim having been relieved of his duties earlier in 2026—the same coach who phased Marcus Rashford out and approved loan spells to Aston Villa and Barcelona—there is a renewed sense of reset at Old Trafford.
Carrick’s early impact has been notable, with Manchester United recording consecutive victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, and Fulham.
As the club prepares to appoint a permanent manager in the summer, Rashford’s situation is expected to be revisited as part of broader squad planning.
Barcelona unfazed by English speculation
Despite growing chatter in England, reports from Spain suggest Barcelona remain calm about Rashford’s long-term status.
Mundo Deportivo has directly addressed claims that the winger could be tempted back to English football, stating that Barcelona are “not concerned about Marcus Rashford’s future should they ultimately decide to retain the winger”.
The report further underlines Barcelona’s confidence by noting that “in negotiations with Manchester United, the club secured absolute priority over the player”. That assurance reinforces the reality that any decision ultimately rests with the Blaugrana, not United.
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