Michael Carrick has confirmed Marcus Rashford remains firmly part of his Manchester United plans, offering a warm endorsement following the forward’s return from a loan spell at Barcelona.
Carrick Draws on Old Bond
Speaking to ITV Sport after United’s pre-season friendly against Leeds, Carrick left little doubt about Rashford’s standing. “He’s our player, and he’s come back great,” the manager said. Simple words, perhaps, but they carry weight given the uncertainty surrounding Rashford’s future in recent months.
Carrick knows the forward better than most. Their history stretches back years, first as teammates, later as coach and player under previous regimes at Old Trafford. That familiarity clearly shapes his outlook now. “I’ve known Marcus a long time, and he gives us something a little bit different,” Carrick added, highlighting qualities few others in the squad possess.
Rashford’s return follows a complicated chapter abroad. Barcelona held an option to sign him permanently for £26m, yet ultimately chose Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon instead. That decision left United with their highest earner still on the books, reportedly pocketing £325,000 per week under a contract signed back in 2023.
Rather than treating his comeback awkwardly, though, Carrick described the transition as seamless. “He’s been back two or three days, trained, and it’s just pretty normal, to be honest,” he explained. Normality, in this case, feels like a positive sign for both player and club.
Rashford was left out of the Leeds fixture entirely, though Carrick hinted he could feature soon. United face AC Milan in their final pre-season outing this weekend, and the manager expects several returning players, Rashford included, to be involved.
Beyond individual reassurance, Carrick’s comments also signal broader intent. Rather than pushing for another exit, United appear content letting Rashford compete for his place under fresh management. Given the scrutiny surrounding his previous Old Trafford spell, this represents a notable shift in tone.
Season Approaches With Renewed Focus
Carrick’s optimism extends beyond one player, too. “We’re looking forward to the start of the season,” he said, reflecting broader confidence within the squad as pre-season winds down.
Whether Rashford recaptures his best form remains to be seen. Still, having a manager publicly back him this early offers a platform many wondered might not exist. For continued coverage of United’s pre-season build-up, visit KCPredict. Further reaction from Carrick was also reported by ESPN, who covered his post-match comments in Dublin.
For now, Rashford’s Old Trafford story continues, with expectation building ahead of kickoff.