Manchester United hint at Marcus Rashford return after Barcelona transfer fails

Manchester United have dropped a strong hint that Marcus Rashford will remain at Old Trafford this summer after his proposed permanent transfer to Barcelona collapsed.

The 28-year-old has not featured for his boyhood club since December 2024 following a public falling out with former head coach Ruben Amorim.

However, the forward was notably included in an official club social media post celebrating players who had reached the World Cup’s round of 16.

This prompted a wave of supporters to suggest the academy graduate is being readied for a return to the first-team fold under current boss Michael Carrick.

Collapsed move to Catalonia

A prolonged exit saga appeared to have concluded when United agreed a £26m option-to-buy clause with Barcelona last summer.

The Spanish giants ultimately declined to trigger that option before last month’s deadline, instead choosing to sign Anthony Gordon for £70m.

United are reportedly unwilling to sanction a third consecutive loan spell for the England international.

This leaves the experienced attacker with an uncertain club future as he continues his international duties.

World Cup focus remains

Speaking ahead of England’s recent victory over Mexico, the striker admitted his preference was to resolve his future before the tournament began.

I was very clear with everyone involved before the World Cup, I wanted it done before.

If it’s not, I wanted it to wait until after.

I want to be fully present in the moment. We’re fighting for something special.

With the Premier League side ruling out another temporary departure, pre-season integration seems the most likely outcome.

He is expected to join Carrick’s squad upon the conclusion of his current international commitments.