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Marcus Rashford’s time at Manchester United might not have reached its conclusion after all, as reports suggest that manager Michael Carrick is open to bringing the England international back into the first-team setup at Old Trafford. The 28-year-old forward appeared to have played his final match for the Red Devils in 2024, but recent transfer movements have reopened the door for a remarkable comeback.

Barcelona loan spell ends

After falling out of favour under former manager Ruben Amorim, Rashford spent time away from Manchester on loan with Aston Villa and later with Barcelona. Although he played a part in helping the Catalan club reclaim the La Liga title last month, his future in Spain now looks uncertain following Barcelona’s £70 million signing of Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon.

Reports indicate that Barcelona opted against triggering their £30 million clause to make Rashford’s move permanent, leaving the winger in limbo. With the Spanish side shifting focus to new signings, Rashford is now expected to return to Carrington for pre-season training under the watchful eye of Carrick.

Carrick keeps options open for Rashford

Having netted 87 goals in 287 appearances over nine years in the Premier League, Rashford has not featured for Manchester United since the December 2024 fixture against Nottingham Forest. Nevertheless, he remains under contract with the club until June 2028, and Carrick is reportedly prepared to welcome him back should a permanent transfer not materialise this summer.

According to reports from The Sun, Carrick has maintained communication with Rashford and has received encouraging feedback from members of United’s first-team leadership group regarding the possibility of reintegrating him into the squad.

Nicky Butt comments on Rashford’s potential return

Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has suggested that Carrick’s inclusive management approach could pave the way for Rashford’s reintegration. Speaking to The Sun, Butt said: “It’s easy to say the Manchester United chapter is over, but the reality is he’s still under contract and earning a significant wage. He’s not going to walk away from that, and it doesn’t seem like any club will meet the fee United are demanding for him.”

Butt further explained: “He might have no choice but to return to United, at least for pre-season. Knowing Michael Carrick, he’s open-minded with players during training and pre-season. He doesn’t cast people aside without reason. If Rashford comes back and Carrick hasn’t brought in all his desired signings, there’s always a chance he could play a role. When you’re paying a player that much, you can’t just ignore him.”

A chance for redemption at Old Trafford

Reflecting on his own career, Butt shared how perseverance and hard work can change perceptions. He recalled returning to Newcastle United after a loan spell with Birmingham City in 2005: “When I went back to Newcastle from Birmingham, I didn’t think I’d stay. I was booed when I came on against Villarreal, even after scoring twice. I thought I’d be out, but I kept working hard, earned respect, became club captain, and stayed another four years.”

He added: “Of course, it would have been better for Rashford to remain at Barcelona than return to Manchester United. The club may have moved on, but if he comes back for pre-season as a United player, Michael will treat him with respect. If he trains well, shows determination, and proves his hunger, Carrick will give him a fair chance. If no other deal arises, United might as well make use of him — it’s as straightforward as that.”