Maguire wants Rashford to remain at Manchester United after Barcelona loan

Harry Maguire hopes Marcus Rashford will stay at Manchester United after returning from his loan spell at Barcelona, saying the forward can make a significant contribution to the club.

Rashford made his first appearance for Manchester United since returning from Barcelona in a 4-2 friendly defeat by AC Milan. The match came after the forward had represented England at the 2026 World Cup.

“We hope Rashford stays with us because if he does, he will be a valuable addition for us. He will certainly improve our performances,” Manchester United defender Maguire said in comments reported by the BBC.

“When he came on against Milan, he was a real threat to their defence. He could have scored. He is a big threat.”

Maguire added: “I have played with Marcus for many years, and I know that playing against him and playing with him in training will help us.”

The England international’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, despite his return to the squad. A previous report by the English newspaper the Mirror said Rashford wants to leave Manchester United.

Rashford has spent the last season and a half away from the club. He joined Aston Villa on loan for the second half of the 2024-25 season before moving to Barcelona.

Barcelona decided not to activate their option to buy him at the end of last season, even though Rashford contributed to 28 goals and helped the club win the Spanish league title.

The 28-year-old has since been linked with a move to clubs in Turkey, Germany, Italy and Saudi Arabia. Several Premier League sides are also reportedly interested in signing him before the transfer window closes in September.

Rashford’s current Manchester United contract runs until the summer of 2028. That leaves him with two main options: remain at the club until the end of his deal and leave as a free agent, or use next season to recover his best form and attract interest from potential suitors.

His appearance against AC Milan was therefore an important early step as he attempts to establish his position under Manchester United’s plans. Maguire believes Rashford’s pace and attacking ability would strengthen the team if he remains, while the player’s long-term future is still expected to depend on his performances and the interest he generates before the transfer deadline.