Manchester United are reportedly adjusting their long-term plans to accommodate life without Marcus Rashford, with the England forward’s future at the club growing more uncertain.
Rashford, 28, is spending the 2025/26 season on loan at FC Barcelona, where he has been enjoying regular football and contributing to the team’s attacking play. As a result, sources indicate that United are not planning to recall him during the winter transfer window and are instead preparing for his likely departure on a permanent basis.
Old Trafford Future in Flux
The Red Devils’ coaching staff, led by manager Michael Carrick, are reportedly focusing on building a squad that does not revolve around Rashford, whose relationship with Manchester United has cooled over recent seasons. Despite once being one of the club’s key forwards, he fell out of favour under former manager Ruben Amorim and was even removed from the first-team setup in pre-season training.
United are understood to be targeting new attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window, recognising that a fresh direction may be necessary after years without significant silverware.
Barcelona Loan and Potential Permanent Move
Rashford’s temporary move to Barcelona includes an option for the Spanish side to make the deal permanent — reportedly worth around £26–£30 million. While Barcelona initially secured the loan due to financial constraints, there is growing belief in Catalonia that the English international could stay longer if club leadership and presidential results align in his favour.
However, his long-term future at the Nou Camp isn’t guaranteed. Barcelona’s upcoming presidential election — scheduled for March 15, 2026 — may influence how the club approaches Rashford’s purchase option. A change in leadership could alter priorities and affect whether the forward is retained.
A Career Reboot Abroad
Rashford’s time in Spain has been productive, scoring and assisting regularly, and reinvigorating his career after a difficult period at Manchester United. There are reports suggesting both clubs could benefit from a permanent separation, offering Rashford a fresh start and United the chance to reinvest in new talent.
Whether Barcelona ultimately activate the purchase clause or Rashford attracts interest from other top European clubs remains an open question. For now, Manchester United’s strategy appears to be planning for a future without the England international as a central figure.
