Manchester United have informed Marcus Rashford’s representatives that they want the striker in Michael Carrick’s pre-season squad, transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano has revealed.
Speaking on his YouTube channel at the end of June, Romano confirmed that direct contact has taken place between Rashford’s side and the club, and the 28-year-old is said to be open to playing with Carrick next season.
The development follows Barcelona’s decision not to activate their £26m (€30m) option to sign Rashford permanently following his loan spell, during which he helped Hansi Flick’s side win the La Liga title.
Instead, Barcelona opted to sign Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon for £70m, leaving Rashford’s future in limbo when his loan at the Catalan club expired.
Rashford remains under contract with Manchester United until June 2028 but has not played for his parent club since December 2024 after falling out with former manager Ruben Amorim.
Carrick, who was appointed manager on an interim basis in January 2026 following Amorim’s departure, shares a long history with Rashford, having played alongside him and then coached under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The Sun first reported in mid-June that Carrick had been in regular contact with Rashford and had polled senior members of the squad about his possible reinstatement.
Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt suggested Carrick’s character will ensure Rashford is treated fairly if he turns up for the new campaign.
“He might be forced back to United, at least for pre-season,” Butt said LiveScore. “Knowing Michael Carrick, he will be receptive to any player who comes to training and pre-season.
He doesn’t just screw people over, he’s not that kind of person.”
Rashford’s high wages at Old Trafford continue to complicate any permanent move elsewhere, strengthening the case for a reinstatement under Carrick.
He is currently with the England squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, meaning any return to club training will be subject to post-tournament recovery windows.
The striker’s reinstatement now depends on the World Cup schedule and his rest period, with Carrick set to assess his options once the England squad reports. Stay with DasFootball for the latest updates.
