Marcus Rashford has stepped back onto the training grounds of Manchester United after a 19-month hiatus, pondering a future at the club and the fight for a first-team spot.
The England star has joined forces with Michael Carrick’s squad in Ireland as Manchester United gears up for the imminent season. In a bid to ease Rashford’s transition, the club chose to cancel a public training session, minimizing the spotlight on his return.
Despite resuming training, Rashford’s participation in the upcoming friendly against Leeds at Croke Park is doubtful. He is currently focused on regaining peak fitness following his post-World Cup respite.
Rashford wants to stay at United
Many speculated that the 28-year-old’s days at United were numbered after going out on loan last season. However, he now seems determined to remain at Old Trafford and compete vigorously for his place.
Interest in the forward has come from several Premier League clubs, but with the transfer window nearing its end, no firm offers have been made.
Rashford is also understood to have no interest in moving to Turkey or Saudi Arabia, with the winger determined to continue playing at the highest level.
His preference could leave United facing a decision over whether to reintegrate him into the squad or pursue a permanent transfer.
Rashford last trained with United in January 2025 before joining Aston Villa on a six-month loan. He subsequently spent time away from his boyhood club as his future under the previous regime remained uncertain.
New shirt number awaits Rashford
Rashford is reportedly set to return wearing the No. 14 shirt after previously wearing the No. 39, No. 19 and No. 10 during his Manchester United career.
The No. 10 shirt is now occupied by Matheus Cunha, who joined United last summer.
The forward still has two years remaining on his reported £325,000-a-week contract, meaning United face no immediate pressure to sell him.
With Carrick now overseeing the squad, Rashford has an opportunity to rebuild his position at United and potentially force his way back into the club’s plans.