Michael Carrick wants Marcus Rashford back at Manchester United if he secures the permanent manager role; Rashford is currently at Barcelona with a likely £26m buy option and prefers to stay. Betting impact: odds for a Rashford return could tighten if Carrick's appointment gains steam, making early transfer-market bets on a United reunion potentially profitable, while backing him to remain at Barcelona looks safer given his form.
Michael Carrick keen on Marcus Rashford reunion at Manchester United
Michael Carrick has made no secret of his admiration for Marcus Rashford and would like to see the forward return to Manchester United should he be appointed permanent manager. Carrick’s excellent start as interim boss — wins over Manchester City and Arsenal — has intensified talk of a long-term role and revived speculation over Rashford’s future.
Carrick’s bright start and influence
Carrick has overseen two high-profile victories that have boosted his stock among supporters and the board. Having played alongside Rashford late in his own career, Carrick believes there remains a role for the England forward at his boyhood club if the managerial appointment becomes permanent.
Rashford’s loan path and Barcelona situation
Rashford left United on loan to Aston Villa at the end of 2024/25 before moving to Barcelona this season. Barcelona hold an option to make the deal permanent — widely viewed as likely to be triggered at around £26million — and the player has signalled a preference to remain in La Liga, where he has registered nine goals and 12 assists so far this season.
Adapting to Hansi Flick’s system
Rashford has spoken about the tactical adjustment required under Hansi Flick, stressing the high press demanded from forward players. "I think for the front guys we have to put as much pressure on the ball as possible because the problem is when players have time on the ball to pick the passes and to see what our backline is doing," he said. "If they do have time then the backline have to adjust. But it's our way of playing, it brings an intensity to the game."
Flick’s stance and sporting director role
Flick has praised Rashford’s performances and made clear that the final call on the player’s long-term future sits with the club’s sporting director, Deco. "Marcus' performances have been perfect until now, so we have to manage it, but it's Deco's job to do things for next season," Flick said.
"For me, of course with Marcus we have a player on the top level, but also with our situation, and what I appreciate a lot from him is his desire to be here."
January window outlook and squad updates
Manchester United look set to stay largely inactive in the January transfer window, with major departures also appearing unlikely. Forward Joshua Zirkzee had been linked with moves away, but Carrick has urged patience over the striker’s recovery and reintegration.
"Josh is just trying to work to get fit and get around the group," Carrick said. "It has been great to have him back training with the group for the first time. That is as far as it goes, for me and for Josh."
Transfer-market implications
A permanent Carrick appointment would likely reinvigorate talk of Rashford returning, shifting transfer-market odds and interest from punters. For now, Rashford’s form at Barcelona and the club’s apparent willingness to trigger the buy option make a stay in Spain the likeliest outcome unless United move decisively.
Report: Man United star could be set for Serie A switch
Michael Carrick has made a fine start to life as Man United's interim manager and is already thinking of plans if he is handed the job on a permanent basis.
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