Marcus Rashford returns to Manchester United for pre-season
Marcus Rashford has rejoined the Manchester United squad for pre-season in County Kildare, Ireland. The 28-year-old forward returns after an absence that began in December 2024.
Rashford’s departure started in January 2025, when he joined Aston Villa on loan. He later moved to Barcelona for the 2025-26 season, scoring 14 goals in 49 appearances. Barcelona did not trigger a reported €30 million transfer option, so Rashford returned to Manchester United.
Head coach Michael Carrick confirmed the full squad’s presence in Dublin, with Rashford among the group. United’s pre-season includes a match vs Leeds United on August 12, followed by a game against AC Milan on August 15, with fixtures in both Ireland and Poland.
Rashford rejoined Manchester United on August 8, 2026. He remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2028. The Barcelona stint suggested he can still produce, but the goal return did not convince the club to complete the permanent deal at the reported fee.
Manchester United will now assess his fitness and role ahead of the next competitive phase.
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