Harry Maguire has thrown his support behind a potential Marcus Rashford return to Manchester United, with the England forward’s future at Old Trafford uncertain following an unsuccessful loan spell at Barcelona.
The 28 year old spent the 2025/26 season at the Catalan club, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists as Barcelona won La Liga . However, the Spanish champions opted against triggering their £26 million option to sign him permanently, instead moving swiftly to secure Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for £70 million at the start of the window . Barcelona had hoped to negotiate a lower fee than the agreed option, but United are understood to be unwilling to entertain discussions over another loan deal .
Maguire’s Unreserved Endorsement
The United captain, speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, gave a glowing assessment of his long time teammate, emphasising the quality Rashford can bring when fully committed.
“Yeah, of course, I have an amazing relationship with Marcus and have had some great times with him over the years,” Maguire said. “I know what a wonderful player he can be. I’m sure it’s up to the club and up to Marcus to find a mutual agreement. Of course, if Marcus does come back, we want him to come back and play and be happy and confident.
“It needs to be right for himself, it needs to be right for the club, but everyone knows what a great player Marcus can be for whatever club he plays for next season.”
Rashford’s World Cup Form Encourages
Rashford has been representing England at the World Cup, where he started against Panama and impressed with his directness and positivity. Maguire, who is also in the England squad, praised his international teammate’s impact.
“I think he was so direct and positive with everything that he did,” Maguire observed. “Straight away took the game to Panama. He was a constant threat throughout the game and when he’s in that mood I think us England fans know how good he can be, and I’ve had the pleasure of playing with him at Manchester United for many years, so when he’s in that frame and in that direct mode he’s unstoppable on his day.”
Contract and Pre Season Considerations
Rashford has two years remaining on his £325,000 per week contract, signed in the summer of 2023 after his prolific 30 goal season . United are open to the possibility of him returning for pre season after the World Cup, with the tournament final scheduled for July 19. Even if England were to reach the final, Rashford would theoretically be back in time to be available for United’s final friendly of the summer against AC Milan on August 15 .
Michael Carrick, speaking at a press conference last season, suggested the door remained open for Rashford’s reintroduction, and United appear willing to welcome him back should no suitable transfer materialise.
Uncertain Summer Ahead
Barcelona’s decision to pursue Gordon has left Rashford’s future in limbo. With no other suitors yet emerging and United unwilling to countenance a second loan, the 28 year old faces an uncertain summer. The club are believed to be open to offers, but Rashford’s considerable wages and recent form may prove obstacles to a swift resolution .
For now, the England international’s focus remains on the World Cup, but his long term future remains one of the most intriguing subplots of the summer transfer window .
