Michael Carrick has expressed openness to bringing Marcus Rashford back into the Manchester United first-team picture should he land the permanent managerial role at Old Trafford. The interim boss, speaking in recent media engagements, emphasised his desire to work with players who show commitment and quality, with Rashford's productive loan spell at Barcelona putting him in a stronger position than when he departed under previous management. Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan in summer 2025 after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim, but his contributions in La Liga and the Champions League have restored confidence in his ability.
Rashford has made 19 appearances for Barcelona, scoring eight goals and providing 11 assists across all competitions. His standout moments, including a spectacular free-kick against FC Copenhagen, have earned praise from Hansi Flick and Spanish media. The loan agreement includes a ā¬30m buy option for Barcelona, but the Catalan club's financial constraints and Rashford's preference to return to England if a suitable pathway opens have kept the door ajar for United. Carrick's comments suggest a willingness to rebuild bridges, particularly if he transitions from interim to permanent status following his appointment in January 2026.
Rashford's Barcelona Impact and United Context
At Barcelona, Rashford has thrived in a possession-dominant system that suits his direct running and finishing instincts. His six goals in the Champions League place him joint-top scorer for the club in the competition, demonstrating his ability to perform on big stages. This form contrasts sharply with his final months at United, where tactical fit and confidence issues limited his output. Carrick, who worked closely with Rashford during his earlier caretaker spell in 2021-22, retains belief in the forward's quality and mentality when given structure and trust.
United's current attacking options have struggled for consistency, with Joshua Zirkzee's sale to Napoli this month highlighting the need for proven goal threat. Rashford's return would provide competition and depth, particularly on the left flank or centrally, though it would require careful management of egos and tactical alignment. His contract at United runs until summer 2028, giving the club leverage in any discussions with Barcelona over a recall or permanent resolution.
Market Reaction and Valuation Shift
Betting markets have noted the renewed speculation, with odds shortening on Rashford's next club reflecting uncertainty over Barcelona's ability to trigger their buy option. The latest Marcus Rashford next club odds show Manchester United drifting back into contention, though Barcelona remain favourites. A recall would carry no transfer fee but would involve wage alignment and squad integration, while a permanent exit from United would likely command a fee north of Ā£40m given his age and recent form revival.
Carrick's public stance adds a layer of intrigue to United's summer planning. His interim role limits long-term commitments, but a strong finish to the campaign could strengthen his case for permanence. If appointed, reintegrating Rashford would signal continuity with past success while addressing attacking deficiencies. For Rashford, a return under a manager who has previously backed him offers a pathway to reclaim his status at the club he joined as a boyhood fan.
Summer Scenarios and Strategic Outlook
The coming months will clarify Rashford's path. Barcelona's financial situation may force them to pass on the ā¬30m option, opening the door for United to recall him or negotiate a permanent exit elsewhere. Carrick's willingness to work with Rashford provides a potential route back, but success would depend on mutual commitment and tactical fit under a permanent structure. For United, recalling a proven talent at no fee represents value; for Rashford, it offers familiarity and a chance to rebuild in the Premier League. Until Carrick's position is clarified and Barcelona's intentions confirmed, Rashford's future remains fluid ā but the interim manager's comments have reopened a door that appeared firmly closed last summer.