Marcus Rashford wins over Manchester United staff as Old Trafford future remains unresolved

Marcus Rashford has made a strong impression on Manchester United staff since returning from his loan spell at Barcelona, despite uncertainty over whether he will remain at the club beyond the transfer window.

People at United’s training ground have told the Daily Mail that the 28-year-old has responded positively to what could have been a difficult situation and has worked relentlessly in training. Rashford, who made his senior debut for his boyhood club, is understood to have fully accepted the circumstances surrounding his return.

There is growing belief at Old Trafford that Rashford could still be at Manchester United once the transfer window closes. Although more than two weeks remain before the deadline, the possibility of him staying in Manchester is increasing with each passing day.

If that outcome is confirmed, there is cautious optimism that Rashford could begin a fresh chapter in a long and sometimes difficult career with United. The forward’s future has remained uncertain since Barcelona decided not to activate a £26m option to buy him, despite what was regarded as a successful loan spell in Catalonia.

Other clubs have shown an interest in Rashford, but no transfer has been completed so far.

The Daily Mail reports that manager Michael Carrick held a lengthy discussion with Rashford before the player returned to Manchester United. Carrick played alongside Rashford during his time at the club and is understood to have spoken with him after Barcelona opted against making the move permanent.

Rashford rejoined his Manchester United team-mates on 9 August. Since then, he has met many members of staff who have joined the club since his previous spell there and has seen the club’s revamped training facilities.

United’s training ground has undergone a complete £50m redevelopment, giving Rashford the opportunity to familiarise himself with changes made during his absence.

Sources told the newspaper that Rashford has again shown a strong desire to support younger players at the club. In particular, he has taken an interest in 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, who has received considerable praise for his performances at youth level.

Rashford has also spent time with 19-year-old winger Shea Lacey and quickly renewed his relationship with England team-mate Kobbie Mainoo.

He is also known to be close to Youri Tielemans, having spent time with the midfielder during Rashford’s loan spell at Aston Villa. Tielemans joined United from Birmingham earlier this summer.

The renewed connections with younger members of the squad and familiar team-mates have contributed to the positive impression Rashford has made since his return.

One observer told the Daily Mail: “It is clear he is making a conscious effort to make a good second impression.”

Rashford’s position at Manchester United is therefore still not settled, with interested clubs yet to turn their attention into a completed deal. However, his approach since coming back from Barcelona has strengthened the view inside the club that he could remain at Old Trafford and attempt to rebuild his career there.