Rashford’s Old Trafford revival stalls as Manchester United future comes under threat

Marcus Rashford’s return to Manchester United has quickly turned into another setback, with a lack of goals, a persistent hip problem and uncertainty over the club’s management casting doubt over his future.

The England forward had hoped to rebuild his career at Old Trafford after a relatively successful loan spell with Barcelona. Instead, he has struggled to make an impact since returning, while Manchester United’s poor form has increased the pressure on both the player and manager Michael Carrick.

Manchester United are 17th in the Premier League after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea. They face Roma on Tuesday before hosting Aston Villa on Sunday, with the club’s difficulties adding to the scrutiny surrounding Rashford.

French outlet Foot Mercato reports that the 28-year-old has become one of the club’s main concerns after failing to take advantage of the opportunity offered to him following his loan spell.

Rashford had impressed during spells with Aston Villa and Barcelona. He scored four goals and supplied six assists in 17 appearances for Aston Villa, then recorded 14 goals and 15 assists in 49 matches for Barcelona.

Those performances helped him regain his international standing and remain in contention for England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Barcelona were interested in keeping him, but Manchester United’s financial demands prevented a permanent deal. The Spanish club subsequently considered other options, including Anthony Gordon, while Fenerbahce and Arsenal also showed an interest in signing Rashford.

Despite not having played for Manchester United since 12 December 2024, when he featured against Viktoria Plzen, Rashford appeared ready to begin again at the club. He was handed the number nine shirt and received a warm welcome from his team-mates.

Harry Maguire backed him in August, saying his continued presence would benefit the side.

“We hope Marcus stays because he will be a valuable player for us. He can improve the team’s performances, he is a major threat to opponents, and I have played with him for many years so I know his abilities well,” Maguire said.

Carrick also gave Rashford the chance to prove himself, but the forward has yet to produce the expected performances.

Rashford’s difficult start

After eight matches, Rashford has started six but has neither scored nor provided an assist. Manchester United have won only one of the games in which he has appeared – a 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town on 30 August.

Two weeks ago, Carrick attempted to ease the pressure on the player, saying Rashford was showing positive signs despite a minor injury which prevented him from joining up with England.

“Marcus has done well in many areas. He had a slight injury when he had to withdraw from the England squad, and we had to deal with it carefully,” said Carrick. “He does not get enough support, but he moves well, gets into good positions and creates some chances. If he continues working in this way, he will eventually receive his reward.”

However, Rashford played only one minute against Tottenham on 10 October. He was then an unused substitute against Leeds United before missing the next three matches with a chronic hip problem that has affected him since the start of October.

His situation could become even more uncertain if Manchester United dismiss Carrick and appoint a new manager. Rashford’s decision to remain at Old Trafford was closely linked to Carrick’s willingness to use him, and a change in the dugout could reopen the possibility of his departure.

Manchester United are due to face Aston Villa on 08 November 2026.